Building a strong professional network is one of the most valuable investments you can make in your career. In this session, Jacob Sobin of Kongsberg Discovery will share practical strategies for developing meaningful connections within the marine technology community and beyond. Learn how to grow your network authentically, maintain relationships over time, and leverage connections to open new opportunities for collaboration and advancement. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to strengthen existing ties, this webinar will offer actionable insights to help you build and sustain a thriving professional network.

About the Presenter

Jake Sobin is the Business Development Manager for Kongsberg Discovery in the Americas.  Jake supports various technologies including the company's AUVs and fisheries acoustics product lines.  Prior to joining Kongsberg, he worked at Contros Systems and Solutions GmbH where he looked after various product lines within the company including dissolved gas sensors and seabed observatories for environmental monitoring.  These solutions range from flow-through sensors for vessels to sensors integrated on AUVS, landers, moorings, etc. from the surface to 6000 meters.  Jake has done extensive work helping academic researchers put together grant proposals with his rich background in ocean science.

Jake has also served as the chair of the Washington, D.C. section of the Marine Technology Society (MTS) since 2015. His leadership role with MTS has him routinely working with conservation-based NGOs, research partner institutions, Capitol Hill, and the maritime industry. He has been awarded with three of the society's highest honours. He also is Kongsberg’s lead on AUVSI’s Maritime Advocacy Committee.

Jake holds multiple degrees in Coastal and Environmental Monitoring with a Master’s Degree from Duke University.