As I read through the feedback from the recent Marine Mammal Mitigation & Monitoring Conference hosted by the Marine Mammal Observer Association (MMOA) and Institute of Marine Engineering, Science & Technology (IMarEST) I feel compelled to share my reflections from the day. As someone who may be an early-career professional, depending on your age limit, having the opportunity to chair the first event of this kind was an unforgettable experience. While I’ve attended several events as a participant, stepping into the role of chair and listening to other seasoned professionals offered me a unique perspective on the importance of collaboration and leadership in our field. It was not only a significant milestone in my career, but it also reaffirmed the immense value that these events hold for professionals at every stage of their journey. Before I start, I'd like to say I could not have done this without Niru Dorrian, the MMOA Executive Committee, the IMarEST, particularly Paige, all our generous sponsors and speakers and finally all the delegates that believed in us.
Leading discussions
Chairing a conference brings a different level of responsibility and involvement compared to attending. Instead of simply absorbing information, I found myself in the role of guiding conversations, ensuring the smooth flow of sessions, and encouraging a dynamic and engaging atmosphere for the diverse group of attendees. This shift from participant to facilitator was both challenging and rewarding.
One of my key goals as chair was to create an environment where all voices—whether from seasoned experts or early-career professionals—could contribute to the conversation. The diverse panels and presentations highlighted critical issues in marine mammal mitigation, sustainable development, and technological innovations in marine observation. However, it was the collective dialogue that emerged from these discussions that truly brought the conference to life. The energy in the room was palpable, and I could see firsthand how engaged everyone was in working together toward solutions.
A platform for innovation and collaboration
One of the most fulfilling aspects of chairing the conference was witnessing the incredible exchange of ideas. The marine mammal mitigation and engineering industries are evolving rapidly, and having a platform where professionals can share their latest research, innovative technologies, and field experiences is invaluable. The conference allowed for a healthy mix of theoretical discussions and practical applications, and it was exciting to be directing those conversations.
A key takeaway for me was the emphasis on collaboration. It’s easy to think of marine mammal mitigation in isolated terms—scientists working on one side, engineers on another, regulators on a third—but the conference reminded me of the need for interdisciplinary approaches. Chairing sessions where scientists, engineers, and policymakers were able to engage in open dialogue reaffirmed the importance of bringing these communities together to address challenges like noise pollution, and the broader impacts of human activity on marine ecosystems.
Encouraging early-career professionals
One of my missions as chair was to ensure that early-career professionals had a voice at the conference. I remember what it felt like to attend my first industry event—excited but somewhat overwhelmed. As someone who has benefited from mentorship and networking at these conferences, I wanted to pay that forward by creating space for young professionals to engage, ask questions, and present their work.
It was incredibly rewarding to see the participation of early-career professionals in both the audience and during networking. I made a point to encourage open Q&A sessions, and I was impressed by the thought-provoking questions posed by younger attendees. Their perspectives brought fresh energy to the discussions, and I hope they walked away feeling more connected to the community and confident in their future careers.
A personal milestone
Chairing this year’s MMOA & IMarEST conference was more than just a professional duty—it was a personal achievement. It allowed me to step into a leadership role that challenged me to grow in ways I hadn’t anticipated. From managing the flow of the conference to ensuring that every speaker’s voice was heard, the experience gave me a new level of confidence in my ability to contribute meaningfully to the industry.
Reflecting on the experience, one of the most profound lessons I learned was the importance of active engagement. Conferences are not just about attending sessions—they’re about contributing, listening, and driving conversations that push the industry forward. Chairing this event allowed me to be at the heart of that process, and I’m incredibly grateful for the opportunity.
Why conferences matter
From my perspective, the MMOA & IMarEST conference is not just an professional event—it’s a critical gathering point for anyone invested in the future of marine conservation and technology. The discussions held here shape the direction of our industry, while the networking opportunities help build lasting professional relationships.
For early-career professionals especially, conferences like this are a chance to immerse themselves in the current challenges and innovations of their field. It’s not just about learning new information; it’s about becoming part of a community that is dedicated to making a difference. I’ve been on both sides—first as an attendee, now as a chair—and I can say with confidence that the experience of being involved at this level has been transformative.
Chairing the MMOA & IMarEST conference has been one of the most rewarding experiences of my career to date. It reaffirmed my belief in the power of collective action, interdisciplinary collaboration and ultimately community to address the complex issues facing marine ecosystems. I hope to see even more professionals taking on active roles in future events because the insights and energy they bring are crucial for the continued evolution of our field. If you ever have the opportunity to attend or even chair such an event, I encourage you to take it—because it will not only enhance your professional life but also shape your perspective on the industry in ways you can’t anticipate.
Words by Ashleigh Kitchiner, Chair of the MMOA