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Galveston Taps 25-year Veteran Milutin as COO

[ June 19, 2026   //   Gary Burrows ]

Galveston Wharves has promoted longtime executive Brett Milutin to chief operating officer and executive deputy port director as the Texas port advances a series of major growth initiatives centered on Pelican Island and cargo expansion.

Milutin, a 25-year employee of the port, will oversee operations as Galveston pursues development opportunities tied to Davie Defense-Gulf Copper’s US$1 billion shipbuilding investment and plans for a new multi-use berth on Pelican Island.

Port Director and CEO Rodger Rees recently outlined a proposal to invest about US$40 million in waterfront infrastructure on the island, including a berth capable of supporting shipbuilding logistics, ro-ro cargo and future LNG bunkering operations.

Board Chairman Jeff Patterson has also cited expansion of Terminal 10 among the port’s priorities, with funding and project sequencing expected to be discussed further by the Galveston Wharves Board. The projects would build on the port’s recently completed US$106 million West Port Cargo Complex expansion and represent the next phase of long-term growth.

Milutin’s appointment comes as Galveston seeks to diversify beyond its fast-growing cruise business and position itself for expanded cargo and maritime industrial activity.  

Tags: Galveston Wharves