Charting the Course for MTS: A Year of Growth, Innovation, and Community Engagement

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.

Over the past 18 months I'm grateful to have had the chance to visit with thousands of members, partners, and advocates for marine technology. Those conversations have left me deeply humbled by the importance of our work, the value we bring to the marine technology community, and the unwavering dedication of our members. Your passion, expertise, and commitment underscore the pivotal role our organization plays in shaping the future of marine technology. 

MTS, however, is more than just an organization; we are a community of innovators, visionaries, and problem solvers. We stand at the forefront of the marine technology industry, shaping the future of our oceans and the world. Our diverse members, from early career technicians and engineers to senior professors and business leaders, form the bedrock of MTS, and your dedication and expertise are the lifeblood of our organization. 

This past year has been transformative for MTS and is a testament to the exceptional efforts of our headquarters team, the dedication of our board, Section and Committee leaders, and the collective energy of our membership. We've witnessed remarkable growth and development. 

We extend a warm welcome to hundreds of new members who have joined the Society this year. We've launched three new Sections and a new professional Committee: expanding our global reach and influence, embracing diversity, and strengthening our community's foundation.

The Dialogues with Industry program, in partnership with NOAA and GOOS, has catalyzed vital conversations about public and private sector collaboration to meet the growing demand for ocean data and catalyzed the launch of our own Ocean Enterprise Initiative. 

The full integration of the MATE ROV Competition into the MTS community marks a significant milestone, inspiring and preparing young talents for careers in marine technology. 

As our community continues to grow and expand, our member meetings have shifted to an online format. This change fosters inclusivity and accessibility, enabling us to connect with even more members. 

But this is just the beginning of our journey. Our industry is ever-changing, and so must we. Our headquarters team and Board of Directors are hard at work, charting out a strategy for the next few years of MTS activities. Our goal is clear: to continue delivering exceptional value to you, our members. 

We aim to expand our membership community and enhance support for the incredible work our Sections and Professional Committees do. We will elevate the quality and frequency of our workshops, convenings, and meetings, ensuring you have access to the latest insights and developments in the field. We are actively working to diversify our revenue streams and further strengthen our long-term financial health, so we can continue serving you for decades to come. 

As stewards and partners of the community, our headquarters team is here to listen, support, and adapt to your evolving needs. This is a shared journey, and your insights and suggestions are invaluable. If you ever want to discuss your priorities, our mission, or how MTS can better align with your vision, please do not hesitate to reach out.

Warm regards,