The Maritime Sustainment Technology and Innovation Consortium (MSTIC) just wrapped up its Collaboration Event in Philadelphia, and it was a doozy. Held at the Philadelphia Convention Center on March 12-13, this gathering was more than just a meet-and-greet; it was a call to arms for innovation in maritime sustainability. The event brought together a motley crew of traditional and non-traditional government contractors, small and large businesses, for-profit and not-for-profit entities, and academic organizations. All of them are focused on cooking up innovative sustainment solutions to tackle current and future security threats in maritime environments.
The event was hosted by the Naval Surface Warfare Center, Philadelphia Division (NSWCPD), which leads the MSTIC Other Transaction Authority (OTA) with ATI as the Consortium Management firm. With 578 companies under its umbrella, ranging from science and technology to logistics and business organizations, MSTIC is a powerhouse of innovation. The OTA is a streamlined purchasing vehicle that fast-tracks the acquisition of cutting-edge technologies, bypassing some of the red tape that comes with Federal Acquisition Regulation (FAR)-based acquisitions. This means faster, more efficient development and deployment of technologies crucial for the Navy’s mission effectiveness.
William Deligne, the executive director of MSTIC, kicked off the event with opening remarks, setting the stage for the keynote speaker, NSWCPD’s Commanding Officer, Capt. Joseph Darcy. Darcy didn’t pull any punches. He reminded the audience of Philadelphia’s rich history in naval shipbuilding, from the Continental Navy to the legendary Philadelphia Naval Shipyard. He challenged the attendees, urging them to push their boundaries and bring their A-game. “We need more,” he said, emphasizing the need for continued innovation and collaboration to ensure the peace and prosperity of the United States through a strong and capable Navy.
Following Darcy, RADM Thomas Anderson, Program Executive Officer, Ships at NAVSEA, addressed the audience via a pre-recorded message. Anderson, who oversees the construction of most of today’s Navy ships, had a clear message: “We have no shortage of work.” He highlighted the importance of both military and commercial shipbuilding, stressing the ample opportunities to contribute to the maritime industrial base.
Rosemary Shuman, MSTIC OTA Agreements Officer, and Jacob Udell, MSTIC OTA Program Manager, both from NSWCPD, provided a deep dive into the MSTIC program. Shuman highlighted the program’s growth, noting that since she started in 2023, MSTIC has grown to nearly 70 project awards and $197M in obligations. Udell, on the other hand, introduced the Innovation Showcase program, describing it as a “shark tank” approach where consortia members bring their solutions to the Navy in support of the warfighter.
So, what does this all mean for the future of the maritime industry? Well, buckle up, because it’s clear that innovation and collaboration are the name of the game. The success of MSTIC highlights a growing demand for cutting-edge solutions in maritime sustainability. As Udell put it, “Moving forward, continued engagement and adaptability will be key to sustaining this momentum.” This event wasn’t just about showcasing what’s been done; it was about challenging the status quo and pushing for more. And that’s exactly what the maritime industry needs to stay ahead of the curve.
The event also underscored the importance of Philadelphia’s historical role in naval shipbuilding. As Darcy reminded the audience, the city’s shipbuilders have been at the forefront of American maritime strength for centuries. This event was a nod to that legacy and a call to continue that tradition of innovation and excellence. So, here’s to Philadelphia, the birthplace of the nation and a powerhouse of maritime innovation. Let’s see what the future holds, but one thing’s for sure: it’s going to be one heck of a ride.
