b'LETTER FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTORMariTrends 2024 Overflows AT THE HELMwith Information Just for YouJOHN GROUNDWATER // EXECUTIVE DIRECTORA lleyesareonthePVAAnnualConventionatPVA FERRY CONFERENCEMariTrends2024,scheduledJan.2730.SetSunday, Jan. 28 | 9:00 a.m.12:00 p.m.against the exciting backdrop of Portland, Ore., PVA members will gather at the Hyatt Regency PortlandThe PVA Ferry Conference is actually a major conference and the Oregon Convention Center, which are both beau- within the convention. It is designed to appeal specifically tiful facilities.to both public and private ferry operators. The conference brings together ferry operators from all corners of the U.S. In addition to first class facilities, the MariTrends 2024to discuss common issues and to share knowledge. Open program is second to none and convention attendees candiscussions are an important part of this conference. expect the very best in pre-sentations and informationPreparing for Zero Emission shared. PVA members, gov- From keynote sessions toFerry Serviceernment experts, and otherroundtable discussions, each professionalshavesubmit-Ferry Boat Programtedanimpressivearrayofday of the convention will offerBenefits and Expansionpresentationsthatcoveraa full-days schedule that will comprehensiveswathof Benefits of Developing anthekeyissuesfacingtheimmerse you, your colleagues,Environmental andpassengervesselindustryand crew in activities andSustainability Program today, as well as issues andexperiences that will take technologies for tomorrow. I nternational Regulations Asaresult,morethan60learning to the next level. Affecting DomesticeducationalseminarsandFerry Operationssocialeventshavebeen planned just for you. From keynote sessions to roundtableDecarbonizing San Francisco Bay Ferrydiscussions, each day of the convention will offer a full-days schedule that will immerse you, your colleagues, and Tips to Effectively Manage Your crew in activities and experiences that will take learning toCoast Guard Inspectionsthe next level.ARTIFICIAL INTELLIGENCEI hope you will take a moment to review the conventionAND PASSENGER VESSELSprogram for MariTrends 2024 here. I think that you willA full line-up of seminars and presentations on artificial in-find that this years convention is overflowing with infor- telligence are scheduled to help you understand this emerg-mation, activities, and events that will make your trip anding technology and how to possibly use it in your business.your involvement very worthwhile.Revolutionizing Software Development forFor your planning, here are a few important conventionPVA Members: The Impact of Artificial Intelligence program highlights. and Machine Learning Continued on page 657 DECEMBER 2023'