October always feels like conference season — a time when professionals from around the world gather to exchange ideas, explore emerging trends, and strengthen collaborations. Earlier this month, I had the privilege of attending and speaking at the OCEANS 2025 Conference in Chicago, a global gathering for those advancing ocean science and maritime technology.
The event brought together a remarkable community of researchers, engineers, entrepreneurs, and policymakers united by a shared mission: to better understand and sustainably use our planet’s largest natural resource — our oceans.
Throughout the conference, I was inspired by the innovation on display. Highlights included:
I was honored to participate in two panel discussions — one exploring women in STEAM and the entrepreneurial pathways available to them, and another focused on supporting maritime technology companies, especially those developing dual-use applications.
In addition, the St. Petersburg Innovation District was proud to exhibit as part of The Continuum, a NOAA supported Ocean Enterprise Accelerator that includes seven organizations. Our participation highlights how our region continues to play a vital role in shaping the future of the ocean innovation ecosystem.
Before the end of the month, I am headed to two more conferences. These are important reminders of the power of collaboration — and how sharing knowledge across regions and disciplines can accelerate progress toward a sustainable future for our region and the District.
Alison Barlow
CEO
Celebrating 10 Years of the St. Pete Innovation District
ARK will share more success and an update as to what’s coming next at their Open House on Wednesday, November 19th.
The Maritime and Defense Technology Hub had the privilege of holding the reception for the Underwater Minerals Conference (UMC)