As summer draws to a close, I’m excited to share a few important updates and opportunities for you to connect, contribute, and celebrate as part of the global MTS community.
Biloxi, Mississippi – August 21, 2025 – Oceans In Action (OIA) 2025 will take place at the Mississippi Coast Coliseum and Convention Center from August 26-28. OIA is hosted by the Marine Technology Society (MTS) Gulf Coast Section and the Mississippi Enterprise for Technology and is the Gulf Coast’s premier showcase for the latest in marine science and technology. Attendees will discover cutting-edge advancements designed for applications across government, research, and commercial industry.
By: Millicent Pitts, Executive Director of Ocean Exchange
Every summer, the Marine Technology Society (MTS) partners with leading institutions to run immersive, hands-on training programs that get students out of the classroom and into the field. In 2025, the tradition continues—with both the Rutgers University Glider Technology Workshop and the Northwestern Michigan College ROV and Sonar Workshop at full capacity.
A few weeks ago I had the good fortune to join ocean leaders, innovators, and champions from across our community to participate in official programming and multiple side events to the 3rd United Nations Ocean Conference (UNOC). Reflecting on the conversations from that week, I’m struck by how powerfully it underscored both the urgency of global ocean challenges and the rising influence of the marine technology sector in addressing them. For MTS, our participation as a side event host and convenor wasn’t just a moment in time – it was a marker of how far we’ve come as a convener, amplifier, and catalyst within the ocean community.
As I near the end of my two terms as Vice President of Education for MTS, I find myself reflecting on a journey that has been equal parts humbling, energizing, and deeply fulfilling. It has been truly inspiring to work with such dedicated volunteers and staff teaming together to advance the society in support of our global marine technology community.
We're gearing up for an incredible 2025 MATE ROV Competition World Championship next month in Alpena, Michigan! From exploring the Great Lakes to diving into maritime history at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, this year's event is shaping up to be unforgettable.
By: Hans VanSumeren
The International Conference on AI for the Oceans (ICAIO) 2025, held April 16-18 and hosted by the MTS India Section in partnership with SRMIST, showcased how artificial intelligence is transforming ocean science, technology, and sustainability. Endorsed by the UN Decade of Ocean Science and supported by MoES, NIOT, and other key institutions, the event brought together global experts across academia, industry, and government.
PRESS RELEASE
As we navigate our careers in marine technology, and especially during uncertain times, one truth remains clear: connectivity is key. Whether you’re just starting out or well into your journey, being part of a strong professional network can open doors to new opportunities, collaborations, and friendships. That’s why, as MTS’s new VP of ECOPs (Early Career Ocean Professionals), I am excited to invite you to engage with the MTS ECOP Community – agrowing, informal space within MTS designed to help you build those critical connections.
The last month has come with a whirlwind of activity from the new US Administration. Like many around the world, I've been watching the news with equal parts interest and surprise. Each new administration, in any nation, comes into power with a mandate to make change, to build a legacy, and to set policy priorities that resonate with the voice of the electorate. The second Trump administration is certainly no exception to this rule—though the pace at which they are driving change has caught many in the US, and around the world, by surprise.
Houston, TX – February 12, 2025 – The Marine Technology Society (MTS) Dynamic Positioning (DP) Committee is pleased to announce the appointment of Mat Bateman as the new Treasurer. Mat brings a wealth of experience to the role, underpinned by his extensive background in marine technology and mission-critical systems.
The Marine Technology Society (MTS) was proud to take part in the momentous naming ceremony of the future USNS Don Walsh (T-AGOS 25) and the future USNS Victor Vescovo (T-AGOS 26). The first-in-class and second ship of the newly designated Explorer-class ocean surveillance ships honor the legacies of two pioneers in ocean exploration: the late Captain Don Walsh, USN and Commander Victor Lance Vescovo, USNR (Ret).
Happy New Year, MTS Members!
