Episode 96: Steering the Future: How the Propeller Club is Transforming Maritime Associations with Maria Conatser

Episode 96

Guest: Maria Conatser, President, International Propeller Club of the United States; Senior Financial Planning Analyst, Ingram Barge Company

Episode Overview:
Maria Conatser joins The Last Dinosaur to discuss the transformation needed for industry associations like the International Propeller Club to remain relevant in today’s digital age. She highlights the strategies to attract and retain members, leverage social media, and modernize offerings while reflecting on the organization’s rich history and ongoing contributions to the maritime industry.

Key Points:

1. The Propeller Club’s Legacy and Evolution:
   • Founded in 1922, the International Propeller Club is a cornerstone of maritime networking. Maria shares its evolution from informal luncheons to a global network with over 80 ports worldwide.
2. Adapting to the Digital Age:
   • Associations must embrace technology to meet the expectations of younger members, including virtual events, interactive websites, and engaging social media campaigns.
3. Transformative Leadership:
   • Maria’s vision for revitalization includes expanding international chapters, strengthening government advocacy, and fostering collaboration with like-minded organizations.
4. Impact of the Pandemic:
   • COVID-19 accelerated the adoption of digital tools, enabling global connections through virtual meetings and webinars. This shift created opportunities to reach wider audiences.
5. Engaging the Next Generation:
   • To attract younger maritime professionals, the Propeller Club is diversifying its offerings, from social events to educational webinars, and addressing workforce development challenges.
6. Workforce Development and Retention:
   • Maria emphasizes the need for improving the industry's perception, providing connectivity and work-life balance for seafarers, and aligning with societal values to attract new talent.
7. Strengthening International Relations:
   • The Propeller Club’s intentional push for international growth includes new chapters in Bulgaria, Cyprus, Norway, and more, signaling its commitment to a global maritime strategy.
8. Leveraging Social Media:
   • A robust digital presence is key to staying relevant. Maria shares the Propeller Club’s ongoing efforts to modernize its website and social media strategies.
9. The Future of Maritime Advocacy:
   • Addressing “sea blindness,” Maria calls for greater public awareness about maritime’s essential role and its environmental advantages in global trade.

Special Mention: Christopher Aversano’s podcast is proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week, coming in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration!

Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube.

Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA'

Art Work By: GA Design

Produced by: Chris Aversano

Support Our Podcast: If you’ve found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for more updates. Your support truly makes a difference!