An Invitation from SNAME’S President

Dear Fellow Members:

Please join me at the SNAME 2009 ANNUAL MEETING and EXPO in Providence, Rhode Island on October 21st-23rd. In response to your input, we have continued to revise and enhance the format of the meeting. This means a renewed emphasis on networking opportunities, enhanced rigor and timeliness of the technical program, an expanded set of continuing education courses, and more social events.

Technical papers remain a key component of our annual meeting, and we once again feature a broad range of peer reviewed papers together with the Ship Production Symposium. Reflecting their popularity at the 2007 and 2008 meetings, we have increased to four the number of themed sessions. Each panel session will consist of three focused technical papers/presentations from leaders in their respective fields followed by interactive panel discussions. The themes for these sessions are:

• Climate Change and the Maritime Industry
• Ocean Energy: Wind, Waves and Currents
• Electric Ships: the Shipbuilder’s Perspective
• Autonomous Vehicles in the Ocean

We are especially pleased with the growth in student participation at the Annual Meetings. It’s a great place for students to work and socialize with their peers, for students to be introduced to and network with industry leaders, and for prospective employers to reach out to future graduates. We offer a packed program for students, including the Student Congress, design competition, job fair, student paper presentations, and social events.

The SNAME EXPO will feature the best in maritime products and technologies. The Exhibitor Innovation Sessions, where exhibitors present their products and services in classroom-like settings, are back again by popular demand.

The President’s Reception, Annual Banquet, President’s Luncheon, and EXPO provide some of the many networking opportunities. Social events prior to the meetings will include golf and yacht racing. Stay tuned to our newly revamped website at www.SNAME.ORG for further details on the technical and social programs.

Providence is a city replete with historical and cultural attractions. Whether your interests lie in walking tours by historical buildings, visits to museums, or enjoying some of the many first-class dining opportunities, I am sure you will find Providence an enjoyable destination. I look forward to personally welcoming you to Providence in October!

Sincerely,

R. Keith Michel
SNAME President