MTS 2024: Celebrating Achievements and Looking to the Future

As the end of 2024 draws near, I am honored to share some thoughts and observations with our global members. This marks my final message as President, as I will transition to Immediate Past President at the end of the year. Over the past two years, MTS has achieved remarkable growth and I am thrilled to share some highlights. 

• Membership has grown from approximately 1,500 to 2,300 individuals. 
• Our operating revenue has grown significantly, and our annual budget has increased roughly threefold from FY22 to FY24.
• We successfully joined forces with the MATE ROV Competition, bringing together two enthusiastic communities of volunteers dedicated to both marine technology and STEM careers.
• We expanded the MATE ROV Competition to the largest world championship ever and are targeted a return to pre-covid registration numbers in 2026. 
• We launched the Ocean Enterprise Initiative, substantially increasing our ability to connect government, academia, and industry. 
• We developed and launched the first ocean technology microcredentials. 
• We significantly grew our professional staff from 3 to 14 people. 
• We expanded our Journal subscriber base and raised the impact factor. 
• We launched a new comprehensive and multi-year strategic plan to guide us through FY28. 

These accomplishments encompass 2023 and 2024 but the past 12 months have shown growth in every metric we track and our membership and community are energized and engaged. The next few years will continue to be exciting! 

The success of MTS is built upon the efforts of more individuals that I can count. But I want to highlight some key groups within our community. 

First, our professional staff are the foundation upon which we operate. They are talented, dedicated, and delightful to work with. If you have not met them, please reach out and get acquainted. They are happy to engage with our members. 

Next, I must express my deep appreciation to my colleagues on the MTS Board of Directors. These volunteers dedicate their time and talent to ensuring our society is well governed and drive our strategies for success. Over the past two years every board meeting has been productive, efficient, and enjoyable. 

Finally, but certainly most important, it is you, our members who make MTS a dynamic and impactful organization. As a collective we are shaping the future of our global ocean through marine technology. If you are a new member, or have been with us for decades, thank you for your participation. If you are interested in advancing your career through greater service to MTS, please feel free to contact me at [email protected]. I would be thrilled to explore your interests. 

Serving as President of MTS has been among the most rewarding elements of my professional career. As we look to the turning of another year, I can only offer my deepest appreciation to our entire community. I look forward to continuing to support MTS and seeing many of you at upcoming events in 2025. 

Best wishes for a Happy New Year! 

- Justin Manley, MTS President