b'Continued from page 4: Letter from the Presidenta great conference with a lot of fantasticthis organization is, and I would lovemembers starting their careers. They conversations, presentations, and socialto see it grow. Additionally, we wanthad so many questions and want to be events. I enjoy that many of us have de- to keep our industry safe. There is noinvolved. These are our future leaders, veloped long-lasting relationships, andbetter way than getting vessel com- and I am excited about that. theyarenotjustbusinessinnature.panies to participate in this organi-And as far as business goes, I like howzation and to take advantage of theFor now, I am ready to lead this or-we support each other. Even competi- safety and training compliance toolsganizationafterafantasticweekin torsareoftenseendiscussingtrendsPVA offers.Portland.Itisgreattogettogether and the newest technological advances.every year even if we must, as I call it, It is a unique group of people. Second,Iwanttoimprovecommu- pay PVA penance when you return to nication about how to be involved inthe office and dig through all those During my remarks at the closing cer- leadershipwithintheorganization.unanswered emails. emony, we had a little fun pretendingThisbecameevidentduringthe we were building a vessel. I tried toconference when I attended the first- Sincerely,demonstrate to all the incredible asso- timememberorientationsession.I ciate members who are part of the or- was overwhelmed by how many new ganization how they all contribute tomembers attended. As I was reflecting the process. From naval architects toabout my time in this industry, I real- Patrick Murphyshipyards, from engine manufacturersized that there are so many youngerPVA President, 2024to suppliers, from seat manufacturers tolifesavingequipmentcompanies, fromwheelhouseelectronicstofire-fighting, from selling tickets to insur-ing your vessel. There are 200+ asso-ciatemembersinthisorganization that work to improve the 350+ vesselDo you feel like youre members businesses. drowning in operational Thepointisthatthisassociationis so vital to each other and is so inter- challenges?twined. It makes this group extraor-dinaryandenjoyabletobearound.Our ticketing platform addresses key challenges like financial management,IfyouattendedthePVAAnnualstaff training, and operational efficiency to become your ally in streamlining ConventionatMariTends2024intasks, boosting growth, and simplifying your life.Portland,hopefullyyouspenttime becoming more educated and found value in all the presentations. During the regional meetings I went aroundandintroducedmyself.One member asked me what my agenda for the next year was. Fair question.Find out what smooth sailing looks like with our modern ticketing platform.First, I want to find ways to reach out to the industry and grow the mem- rocketrez.combership. I just mentioned how great 53 MARCH 2024'