The Expo Education Program returns to the Pacific Marine Expo (PME), offering three full days of sessions covering a range of critical topics such as marine safety, business management, regulatory issues, innovative advancements, and more. This year, PME is teaming up with Maritime Blue to introduce the WorkBoat West program— brand new, free education tailored to shipyards, vessel owners & operators, and commercial marine professionals. From New Orleans to Seattle, we’re uniting key stakeholders from the commercial marine industry to deliver valuable insights and discussions. 
 
To help captains maximize their time at PME, here are the top five takeaways from the PME Education Program. 

1. Stay informed about the political and financial opportunities that could impact business – Learn how to access low-cost capital through USDA programs, as seafood priorities are included in the Farm Bill. With opportunities for low-interest loans similar to those available to farmers, captains could secure funding to support their operations. The Expo Education Program will also provide updates on the Farm Bill’s political landscape, highlighting key provisions that benefit the seafood industry and what to expect in 2025. Ensure your voices are heard and join discussions on creating a seafood liaison at USDA, which could lead to stronger industry representation and support. This is especially valuable for commercial fishermen, as it opens the door to financial resources and policy advocacy that could significantly enhance business and long-term sustainability.
2. Key U.S. Coast Guard Safety Updates for Fishing Vessels – Gain insights about new U.S. Coast Guard regulations for vessels between 50 and 180 feet, especially those built after the 2016 Coast Guard Authorization Act. Learn about alternative compliance options for vessel design, construction, and maintenance, helping captains ensure their vessels meet current safety standards and stay compliant with updated regulations.
3. Explore health challenges of the industry, like fatigue, pain, and stress, while collaborating with experts on practical solutions. Captains can hear the latest research on industry-specific health challenges, such as fatigue, pain, and stress while discovering practical strategies to improve their crew's and their well-being. Engage in discussions with researchers, trainers, and fellow fishermen to apply these insights to your work. The session also offers a platform for captains to share their experiences and work together on solutions to enhance health and safety in the commercial fishing community.
4. Discover the latest diesel, hybrid, and electric engines to boost your operations' efficiency, performance, and sustainability. Hear the latest in engine technologies, from traditional diesel to hybrid and electric systems, and see how these innovations can improve the efficiency, performance, and sustainability of your fishing operations, guiding you in making the smart engine investment decisions.
5. Gain a better perspective on decarbonization technologies and fuel options to prepare for a sustainable future – Get a clear understanding of the global shift towards decarbonization and the technologies that will help the fishing industry meet these goals. Learn about various low-carbon and zero-carbon fuel options, such as methanol, biofuels, ammonia, and hydrogen, as well as technologies like energy storage, fuel cells, and carbon capture. Hear the practical challenges, risks, and safety considerations of transitioning to these solutions and offer guidance on which technologies are likely to become viable in the short, mid, and long term. Captains will leave with a better grasp of how to prepare their vessels and crews for the future of sustainable fishing.

The Expo Education Program at PME is designed to equip captains with essential knowledge and tools to navigate the evolving maritime landscape. With sessions covering crucial topics like financial opportunities, regulatory updates, health challenges, engine innovations, and decarbonization technologies. Don’t miss the chance to engage with experts, share experiences, and discover strategies that will support your journey towards a more efficient, compliant, and sustainable future. Make the most of your time at PME and take advantage of the wealth of information available to drive your success in the commercial marine sector.