One of the things I value most about the Marine Technology Society is that it is built by its members.  

Whether you’re advancing new technologies, conducting research, mentoring the next generation, publishing new ideas, serving on a Section or Committee, or bringing a fresh perspective to the table, your involvement helps shape who we are and where we’re headed. That’s what makes MTS such a unique community—we’re driven by the collective knowledge, experience, and passion of our members.  

As someone who has spent much of my career working alongside colleagues from industry, academia, government, and research organizations, I’ve seen firsthand that the best ideas rarely come from a single discipline or sector. They come from the people who are willing to share what they know, listen to one another, and work together toward a common goal. MTS creates those connections, and our members are what make them meaningful.  

That spirit of shared leadership is especially important as we begin this year’s Board of Directors election.  

We have an exceptional slate of candidates for President-Elect, Vice President of Early Career Ocean Professionals, Vice President of Publications & Communications, and Vice President of Industry, Research & Technology. I’m grateful to each of them for stepping forward to serve and for their willingness to help guide the future of our Society.  

I encourage every eligible member to vote.  

Board elections are one of the most direct ways we shape the future of MTS. The leaders we elect will help set priorities, strengthen our programs, and ensure the Society continues to evolve alongside the needs of our members and the rapidly changing marine technology landscape. Your vote is an opportunity to have a voice in that future.  

Leadership, however, doesn’t begin and end with an election. 

Across MTS, members contribute every day—serving on committees, organizing conferences, publishing research, mentoring students and early career professionals, and creating opportunities for others to connect and collaborate. Those individual contributions are what strengthen our Society and help advance the broader community.  

I look forward to announcing the results of this year’s election at our Annual Meeting on September 29, and welcoming our newly elected Board members.  

Thank you to everyone who has chosen to serve as a candidate, to the volunteers who give their time throughout the year, and to every member who chooses to participate. Together, we’re building a Society that reflects the expertise, diversity, and collaborative spirit of the global marine technology community.  

Susan Hunt

President, The Marine Technology Society