Virginia's Marine Industry Hosts Annual Conference

The Virginia Marine Trades Association’s (VTMA) fifth annual conference was held on the Virginia Institute of Marine Science's campus in Gloucester Point, Va.

The conference is held each year to give those working in the marine industry a chance to learn from national and local experts as well as their peers. With more than 60 in attendance, this week’s event exceeded crowds from past years. 

This year's speakers were from national groups such as the Marine Retailers Association of America, National Marine Manufacturers, American Boat and Yacht Council, MYMIC Marine Technologies and NJ Sea Grant. 

“We were really pleased to have such well-known presenters share their knowledge and experience with our group. Their interest in coming to our meeting reinforces that Virginia is a player in the marine industry on a national level and the VMTA is a valuable resource for all marine businesses in the state,” said Don McCann, president of VMTA, a nonprofit organization promoting and supporting Virginia's recreational marine industries.

Additionally, educational sessions at the conference provided information on upcoming regulations and requirements for pressure washing, an overview of the current prosperity and pitfalls of the entire industry, tips for being a better manager, OSHA rules that are affecting marinas and boatyards, and why certified technicians are so valuable and important.