Oct 23, 2017

Technical sessions and manufacturer expo designed to benefit members of both associations

SEVERNA PARK, MD-During September 24-28, 2018, the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA) and the Radio Technical Commission for Maritime Services (RTCM) will hold a combined International Conference & Expo at the PGA National Resort & Spa in Palm Beach Gardens, FL. Attendees from both NMEA and RTCM will have an opportunity to see cutting edge products shown in an expo hall by both NMEA and RTCM manufacturer member companies. Conference attendees can also participate in technical and business educational sessions offered by both organizations.

The agenda will allow RTCM and NMEA to hold meetings tailored specifically for their members in addition to presentations of mutual interest. Many NMEA and RTCM members belong to both associations with common objectives of making the world’s waters safer, more secure and effective for both recreational boaters and commerce.

RTCM is a standards and membership organization involved heavily in the commercial marine radiocommunications, radio navigation and electronics sectors. RTCM focuses on development of international standards and works closely with international regulatory groups such as the International Maritime Organization (IMO), International Organization for Standardization (ISO), International Electrotechnical Commission (IEC) and the International Association of Marine Aids to Navigation and Lighthouse Authorities (IALA).
“This will truly be a combined marine electronics conference, focusing on both the recreational sector, where NMEA primarily operates, and now the commercial sector, where RTCM primarily operates,” said Mark Reedenauer, NMEA President & Executive Director.
Chris Hoffman, Chair of RTCM’s Board, said, “We are delighted about the joint conference with the NMEA, because it will be so beneficial for both memberships and others that can join us in our common purpose to make our waters more safe, effective and secure for work and play.”

RTCM and NMEA are discussing technical and education session content that will benefit members of both organizations. Initial plans call for a full roster of three separate educational tracks (RTCM track, Installer track, Business track) that would be repeated over the three-day run of the combined Conference & Expo with additional days for related NMEA and RTCM meetings. Information on the combined meeting will be available early in 2018 on www.nmea.org and www.rtcm.org as the agenda is nailed down.