Our Spring event will have engaging panel discussions with representation from the Hampton Roads maritime industry, government, and academia. Keynote speakers include representation from Newport News Shipbuilding, MARAD, the Port of Virginia, and more. A special cocktail hour and networking event will take place on the afternoon of April 12th.

The purpose of this event is to:

• Build awareness of the need to develop climate resilience for waterfront industries and understand industry needs to implement resilient strategies
• Spark planning for future maritime collaborations between ODU and government, industry, and academic stakeholders to grow the maritime pillar of Virginia’s economy
• Profile the diversity of segments in the maritime enterprise

COVE’s Director for Workforce Development, Tanya Lush, will present on the Maritime Workforce panel.  This panel will discuss current and future maritime workforce issues, what is being done to close the workforce gap, and what future skills are needed in the maritime industry. We will also cover how key maritime segments are aligned in addressing these workforce needs.