It’s the start of a new academic year for many of us, a perfect time to celebrate MTS’s role in education and workforce development.

This summer, we awarded MTS Scholarships and selected a new EMERGE Program cohort. Scholarship awards support undergraduate and graduate students who show dedication to a career in marine technology. EMERGE participants are advanced students and early career professionals who will connect with mentors and receive professional development training and networking opportunities over the next several months. While these programs aim to provide a professional boost, the awardees are already doing incredible work. I recommend reading their bios for inspiration and hope for the future of our marine technology community.

MTS student sections continue to build and sustain community for those at the beginning of their marine technology path. There are now more than two dozen student sections spanning five countries. For example, the IIT Madras student section ran their fourth annual TECHSYM, inviting speakers from industry, academia, and MTS leadership to discuss innovations in marine technology, entrepreneurship, sustainability, and community. The New Jersey Student Section is hosting the 4^th Annual Research Symposium on November 6^th, an event that fosters collaboration and networking within the New Jersey technology community. There are many more examples like these! Our non-student members can help our student sections thrive by offering seminars, training sessions, facilities tours, and mentorship.  

An active member community benefits us all. Thanks to the many of you that already pour your energy into MTS. There are many ways to get involved, including participating in your local section activities and volunteering on a committee. As one of many options, we are currently seeking members for leadership roles on the MTS Education Committee – if interested in joining, contact [email protected]. Stay informed by attending the upcoming annual meeting on September 29. And cast your ballot in the 2026 MTS Board of Directors election, open now through September 11, 2026.