[PSUBS-MAILIST] PC2026 – An Exceptional Convention in the Florida Keys

[Jon Wallace via Personal_Submersibles]

PSUBS’ annual convention, PC2026 (February 11–14), will be remembered as one of our finest gatherings to date. By the end of the week, many longtime members were already saying it ranked among our very best conventions — and it’s hard to disagree.

Set against the cobalt blue waters of the Florida Keys, this year’s event delivered both substance and spectacle.

Highlights and Key Points:

*    Shackleton Submarine Dives:
A defining highlight was watching the Shackleton submarine dive over two days in extraordinary conditions — 60-foot visibility in clear, sunlit water of the Atlantic Ocean, 5 miles off the coast of Key Largo.  Seeing her operate in that environment was nothing short of spectacular.  Photographs simply don’t capture the clarity of the water or the precision of the dives.  It was the kind of experience that reminds you why we do this.  All attending members had an opportunity to participate in dive operations and surface support.

*    Technical Program:
We were honored to hear from representatives of Florida International University (FIU), Central Michigan University (CMU), and the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA).  Presentations included discussion of the Aquarius Reef Base, the evolving roles for small submersibles in scientific research, and the current state of ocean reef health.  These sessions brought academic research, operational expertise, and forward-looking perspectives directly to our membership.  The exchange that followed was informed, energetic, and exactly what a PSUBS convention should foster.

*    Federal Engagement:
In addition to the technical program and field operations, PC2026 also marked significant progress in our engagement with key federal stakeholders.  Behind the scenes, constructive engagement with NOAA and the United States Coast Guard (USCG) demonstrated that PSUBS continues to build trust and credibility at the national level.  Our conversations were productive, forward-looking, and reflective of an organization that is serious about safety, preparedness, and responsible operations.  Simply put, we made a strong positive impression.

*    Community & Networking:
But as always, the real strength of PC2026 was the people.  New members connected with experienced builders.  Projects were examined in detail.  Hard-earned lessons were shared openly.  The sense of momentum throughout the week was unmistakable.  Many attendees commented that this was one of our better conventions — high praise given the strong history of PSUBS gatherings.

Takeaways:

*  For those who attended, PC2026 reaffirmed why PSUBS membership matters.
*  For those who did not attend, this is the honest truth: you missed one of the standout conventions in recent memory. The dives were exceptional. The speakers were outstanding. The camaraderie was strong. The organization is clearly moving forward.  We look forward to seeing you at a future convention.

Photos and Videos:
Attendees are currently uploading media from the convention — watch for photos and videos coming soon on PSUBS.ORG!