Newsletter April 2018
From The Captain's Chair
From The Captain's Chair

From the Captain’s Chair
FOSTERING INNOVATION
This month the MIASF team attended eMerge Americas, a premier technology event in Miami that convenes global enterprises, leading startups, and government leaders who are focused on innovating digital solutions that have the potential to transform industries across Latin America, North America, and Europe.
Worldwide technology advances continue disrupting the status quo as machines and robots take on more and more roles in various production processes and one of the fastest growing components of manufacturing innovation is 3D printing. A startling maritime innovation comes from a partnership between Livrea Yachts and Autodesk to build the world’s first 3D printed yacht. The Italian yacht company is using a robotic additive manufacturing process that could save money, diminish waste, and reduce specific production times from months to hours.
When we think about the innovations to come, the marine industry must become more agile and forward thinking. With a high percentage of the marine workforce aging out, the next generation will bring changes that challenge our imaginations – but only if they’re exposed to the opportunities in our industry. That’s why we are dedicated to making young people aware of marine-related jobs through our Salty Jobs video series and involved in our hands-on event, Plywood Regatta, where we also give out scholarship funds to kids who are planning to pursue a career in the marine industry.
At this year’s Plywood Regatta, we gave $6,000 in scholarships to six worthy students, and equally important, spark the imagination of 250 others who all spent the weekend building, painting, decorating, and racing their plywood creations. If you’ve never attended the Plywood Regatta, you are missing out on one of the most inspiring events anywhere.
Paid apprenticeships, summer internships, and on-the-jobtraining are trusted ways to build the necessary workforce for the future of our industry. Take a moment to assess your company’s ability to offer the job of a lifetime to the right attitude/right aptitude individual and become a part of the solution.
As always, elevating awareness is critically important to our industry’s continued success and partnering with NBC Sports Network to broadcast a post-event, one-hour special of the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show, as well as offer glimpses into the South Florida lifestyle and magnitude of our industry, provides a level of exposure never-before enjoyed by the boat show. With a three-year commitment to produce the special, NBCSN, MIASF, and Informa are continuing to move the needle in the right direction for the benefit of exhibitors and visitors alike. Mark your calendar for the MIASF Annual Meeting and Awards Dinner on June 2nd, where Bill Yeargin, CEO of Correct Craft, will be the keynote speaker. Hope to see you there!
Phil Purcell
CEO/President, Marine Industries Association of South Florida