The award, which stands for Commitment to Advancing River Growth and Operations, was presented during the organization’s annual conference in Kansas City. Aimee Andres, executive director of the trade association, highlighted Peacock’s career as a catalyst for regional economic development and maritime connectivity, noting his influence on the growth of port systems over the past two decades.

Peacock, who joined Ports of Indiana in 2001 and assumed the CEO role in 2023, has overseen a period of rapid expansion for the state’s three-port network. His tenure includes securing two of the largest federal grants in the organization’s history and initiating the construction of Indiana’s first ocean container terminal. Under his leadership, the agency transitioned from a government-funded entity into a self-sustaining operation that now contributes $8.7 billion annually to the state economy. Beyond his executive duties, Peacock serves on the board of Inland Rivers, Ports, and Terminals, where he represents Great Lakes interests to better integrate the region with national river systems.