Great Lakes & Great Rivers Summer 2023 Meeting
The Great Lakes & Great Rivers Section of SNAME recently concluded their highly successful Summer Meeting in the charming city of Sault Sainte Marie, MI. The event provided attendees with a delightful blend of relaxation and insightful excursions.
During the meeting, participants were treated to a captivating sightseeing tour aboard the Original Soo Lock Boat Tours, where they enjoyed picturesque views of the stunning surroundings. But the real highlight was an exclusive behind-the-scenes tour of the Soo Locks, including an up-close look at the New Lock Project, an ambitious construction endeavor currently in progress. Witnessing this critical infrastructure project being developed was a truly eye-opening experience for all.
In addition to these engineering wonders, attendees had the privilege of exploring the Sector Sault Sainte Marie Vessel Traffic Services Center, a vital hub for maritime operations, and learning about the vital role it plays in ensuring safe and efficient navigation through the Great Lakes and rivers.
The enriching experience didn't stop there. Participants also had the unique opportunity to step aboard the Museum Ship Valley Camp, immersing themselves in the rich maritime history of the region. This historical vessel served as a fascinating reminder of the Great Lakes' crucial role in the growth and development of North America.
Despite a brief encounter with a refreshing mist during the Soo Locks walk-through, the excitement and knowledge gained throughout the meeting made it all worthwhile. The gathering proved to be highly productive, fostering valuable networking opportunities and the exchange of innovative ideas among industry professionals.
Undoubtedly, the Summer Meeting in Sault Sainte Marie left a lasting impression on all those who attended. The Great Lakes & Great Rivers Section of SNAME can look back on this event with pride, knowing it was an experience that blended education, camaraderie, and the marvels of maritime engineering and history.