As we approach the end of 2023, the MTS team is looking forward to spending time with loved ones and reenergizing by doing the things that mean the most to us, with the people who mean the most to us. We wish the same for all of you, even in the midst of a season full of hustle and bustle.
As we approach the end of another eventful year, I am thrilled to take a moment to celebrate the remarkable growth and successes that have shaped MTS in 2023. One of the most significant accomplishments has been the successful integration of the MATE ROV Competition into our diverse lineup of programs. This strategic move has not only expanded our outreach but has also fostered a new dimension of innovation and learning within the field of marine technology. It also expands our community deep into the next generation of technical professionals. We are now shaping future generations of marine technologists while supporting those already in the field.
Fall is a busy time rich with engagement throughout the MTS community and this year was no exception. Our headquarters team had the chance to connect and visit with members at OCEANS 2023 Gulf Coast, Lakebed 2030, the Dynamic Positioning Committee Conference, and the 31st Annual Oceaneering/MTS Symposium. These in-person events, and others like them throughout the year, provide an unrivaled opportunity to deepen connection, share conversation, and build the relationships that strengthen our marine technology community.
Late September brought a very busy week at MTS/IEEE OCEANS Gulf Coast. I am thrilled to share that it was a highlight of the year for our Society. OCEANS is an embodiment of MTS’s mission, bringing together the marine technology community, including developers and users, in a vibrant exchange of ideas and expertise.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
September 8, 2023
MTS along with the Global Ocean Observing System and NOAA hosted a side event titled “Shaping the Ocean Enterprise to Deliver Essential Societal, Economic, and Environmental Benefits.” This event was part of a series of activities to continue to promote the importance of ocean observing and how industry can partner more effectively with government, through the MTS/GOOS/NOAA Dialogues with Industry.
The Marine Technology Society (MTS) is thrilled to announce plans for the 2024 MTS Buoy Workshop on May 20-23, 2024, at the 7 Cedars Casino in Sequim, Washington! This bi-annual workshop provides a valuable opportunity for professionals and researchers in the marine technology and oceanographic fields to come together, exchange knowledge, and discuss advancements in buoy technology.
Dr Peter Girguis, Professor of Organismic and Evolutionary Biology at Harvard University and Adjunct Oceanographer at Woods Hole Oceanographic Institution, described by his peers as ‘the epitome of a deep-sea explorer’ and ‘a man for all ocean seasons”, has been announced the winner of the 2023 Captain Don Walsh Award for Ocean Exploration by the Marine Technology Society (MTS) and the Society for Underwater Technology (SUT).
On August 1, 2023, 18 ocean experts began their appointment as members of the Ocean Research Advisory Panel (ORAP). The 18 ORAP members include representatives from the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine, ocean industries, state, tribal, territorial or local governments, and academia. Among the 18 individuals chosen is Chris Ostrander, Marine Technology Society (MTS) Chief Executive Officer.
We are thrilled to announce the integration of MATE Inspiration for Innovation (MATE II) and its signature program, the MATE ROV Competition, into the society's lineup of program offerings. This integration will foster connection and bridge the gap between today's professionals and future innovators in marine technology.
Join us in welcoming four new organizational members to the Marine Technology Society! Jumping on board is the Black Girls Dive Foundation, The Centre for Ocean Applied Sustainable Technologies (COAST), and InterOcean Systems, LLC.
About Black Girls Dive Foundation
Black Girls Dive Foundation (BGDF) establishes space and opportunity to empower young ladies to explore their STEM identity through marine science and conservation, and SCUBA diving. BGDF is a designated 501c(3), volunteer-based, educational non-profit organization that was founded in 2017 in Maryland. Currently, there are local chapters operating in Maryland - Baltimore County and Baltimore City; Trenton, New Jersey, and Atlanta, Georgia.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
July 11, 2023
We are deeply saddened at the loss of the crew of the submersible Titan. Our underwater community is close-knit and deeply connected; many of us worked with and knew those onboard. We appreciate and extend our gratitude for the efforts of the hundreds of volunteers and professionals who worked tirelessly on the complex and difficult search. That numerous agencies and commercial partners, from multiple nations, rapidly responded and deployed cutting-edge technologies is a testament to the strength and cohesion of the maritime sector – and emblematic of the Mariner’s Code that connects all seafarers. Along with the entire marine technology community, MTS leadership offers our sincere condolences and sympathies to the families and friends of the Titan's crew.
King Abdullah University of Science and Technology (KAUST) and the Marine Technology Society (MTS) have announced the launch of the Red Sea Section, the society's first section in the middle east. The section was established on January 9, 2023 at KAUST with the goal of facilitating communication between those interested in marine science and technology from inside and outside the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
