Episode 96

Guest: Maria Conatser, President, International Propeller Club of the United States; Senior Financial Planning Analyst, Ingram Barge Company

Episode Overview: Maria Conatser joins The Last Dinosaur to discuss the transformation needed for industry associations like the International Propeller Club to remain relevant in today’s digital age. She highlights the strategies to attract and retain members, leverage social media, and modernize offerings while reflecting on the organization’s rich history and ongoing contributions to the maritime industry.

Key Points:

1. The Propeller Club’s Legacy and Evolution:
   • Founded in 1922, the International Propeller Club is a cornerstone of maritime networking. Maria shares its evolution from informal luncheons to a global network with over 80 ports worldwide.
2. Adapting to the Digital Age:
   • Associations must embrace technology to meet the expectations of younger members, including virtual events, interactive websites, and engaging social media campaigns.
3. Transformative Leadership:
   • Maria’s vision for revitalization includes expanding international chapters, strengthening government advocacy, and fostering collaboration with like-minded organizations.
4. Impact of the Pandemic:
   • COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of digital tools, enabling global connections through virtual meetings and webinars. This shift created opportunities to reach wider audiences.
5. Engaging the Next Generation:
   • To attract younger maritime professionals, the Propeller Club is diversifying its offerings, from social events to educational webinars, and addressing workforce development challenges.
6. Workforce Development and Retention:
   • Maria emphasizes the need for improving the industry's perception, providing connectivity and work-life balance for seafarers, and aligning with societal values to attract new talent.
7. Strengthening International Relations:
   • The Propeller Club’s intentional push for international growth includes new chapters in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Norway, and more, signaling its commitment to a global maritime strategy.
8. Leveraging Social Media:
   • A robust digital presence is key to staying relevant. Maria shares the Propeller Club’s ongoing efforts to modernize its website and social media strategies.
9. The Future of Maritime Advocacy:
   • Addressing “sea blindness,” Maria calls for greater public awareness about maritime’s essential role and its environmental advantages in global trade.

Special Mention: Christopher Aversano’s podcast is proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week, coming in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration!

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA'

Art Work By: GA Design

Produced by: Chris Aversano

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Episode 95:   Navigating the Houston Ship Channel - Challenges and Innovation with Captain Matthew Glass

Guest: Captain Matthew Glass, Pilot and Second Officer on the Houston Pilot’s Executive Committee

Episode Overview: In this episode of The Last Dinosaur – Maritime Shipping in the Digital Age, Chris Aversano welcomes Captain Matthew Glass, a seasoned pilot on the Houston Ship Channel. They dive into the evolving landscape of one of the busiest ports in the world, exploring topics like infrastructure upgrades, digitalization, social media, and the challenges posed by decarbonization and engine power limitations.

Key Points & Quotes:

1. Captain Glass’s Journey:
   • "My dream from a young age was to be a pilot. Growing up near Galveston Bay, it was all I wanted to do." (02:00)
   • Insight into his maritime career, starting at Texas Maritime Academy and evolving into a leadership role as a Houston pilot.
2. Houston Ship Channel Upgrades:
   • "We’re completing Project 11, a billion-dollar effort to widen the channel to 750 feet. This allows two-way NeoPanamax traffic and boosts efficiency." (03:58)
3. Challenges of Decarbonization:
   • "With these newer engines, power limitations can impact maneuverability. As pilots, we need power for control—not just speed." (08:38)
4. Embracing Digitalization:
   • "We’re almost a technology company. From dispatch systems to pilot navigation units, everything is standardized and data-driven." (13:30)
   • Discussion on innovations like their in-house Pilot Dispatching System (PLS) and collaborations with the U.S. Coast Guard.
5. Social Media for Awareness:
   • "What’s boring to us as pilots is fascinating to others. Social media helps us share our work and educate the public about the port’s importance." (22:13)
6. Workforce Development:
   • "When families learn about maritime opportunities, they’re fascinated. Social media and local partnerships help us attract the next generation." (30:38)
7. Balancing Career and Family:
   • "Most nights, I’m reading Goodnight Farm to my kids. It’s a reminder that there’s more to life than emails and ship stats." (34:26)

Learn More: Explore related discussions on the intersection of digitalization and maritime operations in Episode 87: Navigating the Future of Seafarers' Welfare and Maritime Challenges.

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

Support Our Podcast: If you’ve found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates. Your support truly makes a difference!

Special Mention: Christopher Aversano’s podcast is proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week, coming in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration!

Episode 94: Maritime Digitalization Year in Review 2024

Guest: Evangelos Efstathiou, Managing Director of SkySail Advisors Ltd and Chief Executive Officer of Burmester & Vogel

Editor's Note: Please note that there were some minor audio inconsistencies on the host's side during this episode. We appreciate your understanding and hope you enjoy the discussion!

Episode Overview: In this annual tradition, Christopher Aversano is joined by Evangelos Efstathiou for the third year in a row to review the year in maritime digitalization and tech. They discuss the biggest trends of 2024, including the evolution of AI in the maritime industry, private equity’s increasing influence, and the critical intersection of decarbonization and digitalization. Evangelos also shares updates on SkySail’s exciting partnership with AMA Capital and Burmester & Vogel’s game-changing advancements in AI for demurrage management.

Key Points:

1. AI’s Transformational Role: AI’s integration in maritime operations has moved beyond hype, with practical applications driving revenue growth and operational efficiency. Burmester & Vogel’s AI solutions now account for 25% of its revenue, highlighting the technology’s real-world impact.
2. Regulatory Push Toward Decarbonization: 2024 saw an increased focus on decarbonization initiatives such as FuelEU, with digital tools playing a pivotal role in tracking and optimizing emissions.
3. Private Equity and Platform Consolidation: Evangelos highlights Kpler’s acquisition of Spire Maritime and MarineTraffic as an example of the ongoing trend of private equity-backed consolidation in maritime tech.
4. SkySail’s Partnership with AMA Capital: The collaboration combines SkySail’s maritime tech expertise with AMA Capital’s proven investment banking capabilities, creating a new suite of services for maritime tech investments.
5. The "Real AI" at Burmester & Vogel: After three years of development, Burmester & Vogel’s AI tools for demurrage management are redefining the workflow, automating processes, and significantly reducing human labor.
6. Challenges in AI Adoption: While enthusiasm for AI is high, customers are navigating the noise created by vendors offering AI solutions without clear value. Evangelos draws parallels with the blockchain buzz five years ago.
7. Consolidation in Maritime Efficiency Solutions: A bold prediction for 2025 suggests significant mergers between software and hardware players, offering holistic efficiency services from hull coatings to weather routing.
8. Interest Rates and VC Funding: Rising interest rates have forced startups to focus on self-sustaining economics, challenging maritime tech ventures to prove product-market fit in a high-CAC environment.

Special Mention: Christopher Aversano’s podcast is proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week, coming in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration!

Learn More: Check out Episode 89: Seafarers, Decarbonization, and Diversity at Sea with Ralph Juhl, EVP, Technical at Hafnia

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA'

Art Work By: GA Design

Produced by: Chris Aversano

Support Our Podcast: If you’ve found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference!

Episode 93: Navigating Ports and Innovation with Tommy Mikkelsen, Managing Director at Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure

Guest: Tommy Mikkelsen, Managing Director, Navigation and Piloting Division, Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure

Episode Overview: In this episode, Chris Aversano speaks with Tommy Mikkelsen about Trelleborg Marine and Infrastructure’s innovative contributions to port navigation and operational efficiency. With over 100 years of expertise, Trelleborg is at the forefront of advancing safety, sustainability, and digitalization in critical marine and port operations. Tommy shares insights from his 30-year career, the challenges of change management, and how Trelleborg is driving decarbonization and efficiency in ports worldwide.

Key Points:

1. Trelleborg’s Niche in Marine Infrastructure: Focused on the "last mile" of maritime operations, including navigation and piloting, fender systems, and mooring solutions.
2. Collaborations with the Panama Canal Authority: Implementing high-accuracy navigation systems to enhance efficiency and safety for ships transiting the canal.
3. Adopting Technology for Port Operations: Leveraging predictive modeling and real-time data to optimize ship movements, reduce fuel consumption, and decrease dredging requirements.
4. Change Management Challenges: Addressing resistance from pilots and crews to new technology by emphasizing training and intuitive design.
5. Decarbonization Through Digitalization: Innovations such as real-time under-keel clearance monitoring and optimized tug usage to reduce emissions and improve cargo handling.
6. Advancing Maritime Digitalization: Enhancing data-sharing capabilities to overcome proprietary barriers and ensure a holistic approach to monitoring and optimization.
7. Encouraging Careers in Maritime: The maritime industry offers hands-on innovation opportunities for engineers and developers, making a tangible impact in a rapidly evolving field.
8. Personal Insight: Tommy shares his love for sci-fi literature, recommending The Expanse series by James S.A. Corey for a dose of inspiration.

Learn More: Check out Episode 72 with David Yeo, CEO of Innovez One talks about port digitization.

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

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Episode 92: Port Miami’s Vision for the Future with Christopher Hudtwalcker

Guest: Christopher Hudtwalcker, Senior Strategy & Innovation Officer, Port Miami

Episode Overview: In this episode of The Last Dinosaur, Christopher Aversano welcomes Christopher Hudtwalcker, the Senior Strategy & Innovation Officer of Port Miami. Hudtwalcker shares the port's transformative journey, detailing their dual focus on cruise and cargo sectors and plans for expanding as a key cargo hub for Latin America. With a strong emphasis on innovation, Port Miami is pioneering new initiatives like the creation of a dedicated innovation office and ambitious cargo visibility projects to optimize operations, decarbonization efforts, and community engagement.

Key Points:

1. Port Miami's Economic Impact: Port Miami generates $61.4 billion in economic activity, supports over 340,000 jobs, and plays a crucial role in Florida’s economy. Hudtwalcker discusses the port's commitment to local economic growth and community impact.
2. Expanding Cargo Operations: While historically known as the “cruise capital of the world©,” Port Miami is doubling down on its cargo facilities. With new densification projects, the port aims to strengthen its position as the primary cargo gateway to Latin America.
3. The Innovation Office: Port Miami is leading the way by establishing a dedicated innovation office, one of the first of its kind in the U.S. This office will centralize digital transformation efforts, streamline cargo tracking, and enhance port operations through emerging technologies.
4. Cargo Visibility and Pilot Projects: Hudtwalcker shares details about current pilot projects using AI and computer vision to track cargo movements and manage port efficiency, helping Miami compete in a data-centric future.
5. Decarbonization and Sustainability Efforts: Given its unique location, Port Miami prioritizes sustainability by reducing emissions, investing in shore power for cruise ships, and managing truck idling times, all with an eye on improving air quality for the community.
6. Building a Port Community System: With inspiration from other global ports, Miami aims to create a “one-stop-shop” online platform for stakeholders to access real-time port data, from truck schedules to weather updates, fostering a more connected ecosystem.
7. Engaging the Next Generation: Reflecting on his own journey from politics to the maritime sector, Hudtwalcker shares insights on the appeal of maritime careers and the variety of opportunities in this dynamic field.

Learn More: For those who enjoyed learning about port modernization, check out Episode 77 with Bethann Rooney, Director of Port New York & New Jersey, where we discuss the strategic transformations happening in one of the busiest ports on the East Coast. Like Port Miami, Port New York & New Jersey operates as a landlord port, collaborating with cargo handlers and focusing on sustainable growth.

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Special Announcements:

• The Captain’s Table Partnership: This episode is part of The Last Dinosaur’s collaboration with the Captain’s Table, supporting the Captain's Table Challenge to spotlight groundbreaking innovations and startups in maritime.
• Media Partnership with LISW25: The Last Dinosaur is also proud to be a media partner for the London International Shipping Week (LISW25) in September 2025. Stay tuned for exclusive coverage and insights from one of the industry’s most significant global events.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA'

Artwork By: GA Design

Produced by: Chris Aversano

Support Our Podcast: If you enjoyed this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates, and consider supporting our work through sponsorship opportunities.

Episode 91: Navigating Global Marine Lubricants and Decarbonization with David Price, CEO of Gulf Marine

In this episode of The Last Dinosaur, brought to you in partnership with the Captain’s Table, Chris Aversano sits down with David Price, CEO of Gulf Marine, a company renowned for providing OEM-approved marine lubricants and technical services across 1,000+ ports worldwide. Gulf Marine, a subsidiary of Gulf Oil International within the Hinduja Group, is deeply committed to quality and customer service, ensuring reliable support wherever it’s needed. David shares Gulf Marine’s journey, his personal transition from customer to CEO, and how the company is actively supporting the maritime industry’s path toward decarbonization.

Key Takeaways

1. From Customer to CEO: David shares his unique journey, transitioning from being a Gulf Marine customer to leading the company. His experience brings a customer-first perspective that has shaped Gulf Marine's focus on reliability and responsiveness.
2. Customer-Centric Service in Action: Gulf Marine is dedicated to ensuring dependable service, even in the most challenging locations, by closely listening to client needs and providing quick, tailored support.
3. Decarbonization Through Innovation: Lubricants are critical in the maritime decarbonization journey, especially with regulations like IMO 2020. David explains Gulf Marine’s advancements in developing lubricants compatible with alternative fuels like methanol and ammonia.
4. Sustainability at Every Level: Gulf Marine’s Singapore facility operates on solar power, showcasing the company’s commitment to environmental responsibility in its production process.
5. Digital Optimization: Gulf Marine, a proprietary tracking software, to monitor global trade patterns and optimize deliveries, ensuring products reach clients exactly when and where they need them.
6. Adapting to Supply Chain Shifts: Global supply chain challenges, from geopolitical events to natural disasters, require flexibility and innovation. David discusses how Gulf Marine navigates these obstacles to maintain smooth operations.
7. Why Join the Maritime Industry: David’s passion for shipping is evident as he shares why he believes the industry offers exciting, ever-evolving career opportunities.

Special Announcements

• The Captain’s Table Partnership: This episode is part of The Last Dinosaur’s collaboration with the Captain’s Table, supporting the Captain's Table Challenge to spotlight groundbreaking innovations and startups in maritime.
• Media Partnership with LISW25: The Last Dinosaur is also proud to be a media partner for the London International Shipping Week (LISW25) in September 2025. Stay tuned for exclusive coverage and insights from one of the industry’s most significant global events.

Don’t Miss Out: Check out Episode 83 with Esa Henttinen for more insights on innovation in maritime sustainability.

Listen Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

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Episode 90: Driving Trade Forward – Digital Standards in Maritime with Pamela Mar, ICC

Guest: Pamela Mar, Managing Director of the Digital Standards Initiative, International Chamber of Commerce (ICC)

Episode Overview: In this episode, I speak with Pamela Mar, Managing Director of the Digital Standards Initiative at the International Chamber of Commerce (ICC), the world’s largest business organization representing 45 million businesses across 170 countries. We dive into ICC’s mission to streamline global trade, focusing on maritime’s critical role and how digital standards can transform the landscape for greater efficiency, transparency, and inclusivity.

This is another episode brought to you in partnership with The Captain's Table Challenge

Quote: "If you have any interest in enabling things to be cheaper, faster, and more accessible to everyone, you will want to see faster digitalization of global trade." — Pamela Mar

Key Points:

1. ICC's Role in Trade and Maritime: Pamela outlines ICC’s foundational work advocating businesses at all levels and its role in fostering stability and growth through global trade.
2. The Digital Standards Initiative (DSI): Launched by ICC, DSI works to modernize trade by digitalizing processes, aiming to align standards for documents like bills of lading (BLs), making trade faster and more transparent.
3. Why Digitalization Matters for Trade Efficiency: Pamela highlights that digital trade documents reduce costs, enhance security, and provide vital data for better decision-making, supporting transparency and efficiency across supply chains.
4. Digital Trust in Trade: Emphasizing the importance of trust, Pamela explains how digital standards need harmonized frameworks for data security, traceability, and interoperability to gain widespread adoption.
5. Collaboration with Governments and Organizations: ICC collaborates with global entities to drive legal frameworks allowing electronic records, with countries like the UK and France leading by example.
6. Adoption Barriers and Strategies: Pamela discusses challenges in digital adoption, especially across complex supply chains. The DSI focuses on high-impact documents like EBLs, which streamline trade finance and simplify logistics.
7. Benefits for the Future of Trade: Moving to digital standards benefits all – from reducing costs to supporting decarbonization efforts. ICC’s work paves the way for a more connected, transparent global marketplace.

Learn More: Check out our previous episode with Ralph Juhl to explore more on maritime digitalization and its challenges.

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch this episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected, "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

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Announcement: The Last Dinosaur is also a proud media partner with the London International Shipping Week 2025 (#LISW25).  

Episode 89: Seafarers, Decarbonization, and Diversity at Sea with Ralph Juhl, EVP, Technical at Hafnia

Guest: Ralph Juhl, Executive Vice President, Technical, Hafnia

Episode Overview: In this episode, Christopher Aversano speaks with Ralph Juhl, EVP of Technical Operations at Hafnia, the largest operator of product and chemical tankers. They dive deep into the challenges and innovations facing the shipping industry, particularly the role of seafarers in decarbonization efforts, the evolving role of technology and digitalization on ships, and Hafnia's groundbreaking efforts to diversify crews with initiatives such as their Culture Lab. Ralph also sheds light on seafarers' well-being and the importance of education in adapting to new fuels, regulations, and equipment, along with Hafnia’s unique approach to crew management and diversity.

This is the second episode in a series that we are doing along with our partners at The Captains Table Challenge

Key Points:

1. Seafarers’ Evolving Role in Decarbonization: Ralph explains how seafarers are on the front lines of decarbonization, from operating complex digital systems to adopting new technologies that reduce emissions and improve energy efficiency. Hafnia’s approach to educating crews is critical to adapting to new challenges.
2. Navigating Modern-day Shipping Risks: With global tensions, particularly in the Red Sea and Ukraine, Ralph shares how Hafnia strategically ensures safe passage for its fleet, while balancing the evolving regulatory landscape.
3. Technical Operations and Crew Management: Ralph talks about overseeing Hafnia’s 120+ vessels and managing a workforce of 4,500 seafarers. He discusses the day-to-day operations that ensure ships meet international standards and keep the oil majors satisfied.
4. Culture Lab and Promoting Diversity: Hafnia's innovative Culture Lab program focuses on increasing diversity at sea, with an emphasis on gender equality. Ralph shares how having 50% female crew on some vessels has transformed the on-board culture, making it more collaborative and professional.
5. Digitalization and Future Fuels: Ralph and Chris discuss the complexities of implementing future fuels like LNG and ammonia, as well as how digitalization can support smoother operations and potentially lead to autonomous vessels in the future.
6. Connectivity and Seafarers’ Well-being: Hafnia prioritizes connectivity for crews, allowing seafarers to stay in touch with their families and access real-time data to make better decisions at sea. Ralph highlights the need for balance, ensuring seafarers remain focused while staying connected.

"We trust seafarers with billions of dollars of ships and cargo, so why shouldn’t we trust them with a phone? Connectivity at sea isn’t a privilege; it’s a necessity." – Ralph discussing the importance of connectivity for seafarer well-being and operational efficiency.

1. The Future of Autonomous Ships: Ralph offers a thought-provoking perspective on what autonomy in shipping might look like—not as crewless ships but as a shift to fewer office-based roles, enabling more decision-making on board.

Learn More: Check out Episode 85 with Cristina Aleixendri Muñoz, discussing wind-assisted propulsion and innovation in shipping.

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

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The Last Dinosaur is also a proud media member of the London International Shipping Week

#LISW25

Episode Title: Modernizing Great Lakes Shipping: Navigating Automation and Digitalization with Mark Barker

Guest: Mark Barker, President, Interlake Maritime Services

Episode Overview: In this episode, host Christopher Aversano speaks with Mark Barker, President of Interlake Maritime Services. They explore the technological evolution of Great Lakes shipping, focusing on the integration of automation, digitization, and connectivity with Starlink. Mark shares insights into how Interlake is modernizing its fleet, preserving crew welfare, and leveraging social media to build its brand in an industry often overlooked by the public.

Key Points:

1. The Evolution of Great Lakes Shipping: Mark discusses Interlake's transformation from a steamship company to a modern fleet equipped with diesel plants and automated systems. He highlights the challenges and rewards of updating older ships for today's technological demands.
2. Digitization and Automation on Board: Over the past 15+ years, Interlake has focused on digitalization through automation. Mark explains how the company has transitioned from full watch-standing to unmanned engine rooms, which improves efficiency while maintaining safety and operational control.
3. Crew Connectivity with Starlink: Interlake is one of the first companies to adopt Starlink’s maritime service, allowing crews to stay connected with their families. This technology has enhanced both crew welfare and ship operations by providing real-time data and communication capabilities.
4. Sustainability in Shipping: The company's efforts go beyond digitization. Mark highlights how Interlake's bulk carriers play a key role in supporting the US blast furnace steelmaking industry, transporting materials like iron ore and coal more efficiently than rail or road. As Mark says, "We’re moving the building blocks of America across the Great Lakes—iron ore, road salt, stone, and coal—making sure the foundation of the US economy stays strong."
5. Challenges of IT and Digital Systems in Maritime: Christopher and Mark discuss the often-underestimated complexities of implementing IT solutions on ships. They emphasize the importance of preparation, ongoing training, and careful resource allocation to ensure successful modernization efforts.
6. Embracing Social Media for Branding and Recruitment: Mark touches on how Interlake uses platforms like YouTube, TikTok, and Instagram to showcase life on the Great Lakes and attract the next generation of maritime professionals. 
7. Career Opportunities in the Great Lakes Shipping Industry: Mark highlights the upward mobility within Great Lakes shipping, where individuals can start as deckhands and rise to captain. With the industry's increasing digitalization and improved working conditions, it's an attractive option for those seeking a fulfilling career. “Our ships may be on the Great Lakes, but the impact we have is national. We're keeping the heart of the US economy moving—quietly, but powerfully," Mark adds.

Learn More: If you enjoyed this episode, check out our earlier discussion with fellow ship owner Scott Bergeron Managing Director at Oldendorff Carriers GmbH & Co. KG

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and YouTube! Watch the full episode on YouTube for an in-depth look at the latest developments in Great Lakes shipping.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected – King of SKA

Art Work By: GA Design

Produced by: Chris Aversano

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Episode 87: Navigating the Future: Seafarers' Welfare and Maritime Challenges

Guest Panelists:

• Simon Grainge, Executive Director, ISWAN
• Chaplain Michelle DePooter, Montreal Ministry to Seafarers and Vice-President, NAMMA
• Stephen Lyman, Executive Director, Maritime Association of the Port of NY-NJ

Episode Overview: Recorded live at the NAMMA Annual Conference, this special World Maritime Day episode of The Last Dinosaur brings together key experts to discuss the future of seafarers' welfare and the challenges facing the maritime industry. Our panelists dive into this year’s theme, Serving Seafarers: First Things First, exploring critical topics such as sea blindness, the growing influence of digital connectivity, and the role of new technologies in shaping maritime operations. This engaging discussion highlights the importance of putting seafarers' welfare at the heart of the industry as it continues to evolve.

Key Points:

• Sea Blindness: The panel explores how the public remains largely unaware of the maritime industry’s contributions and the critical work of seafarers, despite its global impact.
• Connectivity's Impact: With more seafarers gaining access to onboard internet and communication tools, we explore how this can both improve and complicate life at sea, especially in terms of maintaining social cohesion on board.
• Emerging Technologies & Fuels: The shift toward new technologies like AI and alternative fuels (such as ammonia and LNG) is reshaping maritime safety and training. The panel addresses the potential benefits and challenges these developments bring for seafarers.
• The Human Element: While technology is rapidly changing the industry, the panel emphasizes the importance of maintaining human connections on board. As Simon Grainge notes, “Technology should be a servant, not a master. We must remind seafarers that they are not just small cogs in a vast machine.”
• Looking Ahead: Safety First: As decarbonization and automation continue to transform maritime logistics, our panelists call for greater involvement of seafarers in decision-making processes to ensure that their welfare and safety remain top priorities. Michelle DePooter emphasizes, “Connectivity is crucial, but so is maintaining the social bonds on board. We can’t lose the human connection.”

Links & Resources:

• ISWAN's SeafarerHelp Helpline
• Montreal Ministry to Seafarers
• Maritime Association of the Port of NY-NJ

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected "King of SKA" Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano

Support Our Podcast: If you’ve enjoyed this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference!