The Ocean Business 2011 hands on ocean technology and training forum was held at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton was a great event which for the first time, saw the presence of the University of Plymouth’s Marine Institute.

Launched only five years ago ‘Ocean Business’ has become one of the most important events in the international ocean technology calendar. 2011 saw a major expansion in order to host 311 exhibiting companies from 24 countries. During the course of the 3 day event more than 3000 people from 52 countries attended the exhibition, many stopping at the stand of the Marine Institute to inquire of its work and developments taking place at Plymouth. In addition to a ‘working breakfast’ to meet clients, a one hour presentation opportunity was provided allowing an in depth talk to be given to a select audience about the new marine building and other facilities available..

Alongside Ocean Business, a separate event ‘Ocean Careers’ offered career advice for young persons considering work in the marine and maritime sector. The event was run over the three days of the exhibition. The Marine Institute took the opportunity to promote its full range of programmes through a formal presentation to more than 100 young persons and ‘one to one’ career talks held during the day..

Paul Wright (Associate Director) reflected ‘ Ocean Business 2011 was of great value – it allowed a wonderful opportunity for networking and informing potential clients of the world class facilities which the University of Plymouth already possesses and which will shortly come on stream”

Thanks to the MI team Frankie Peckett, Luke Arthur, Andrew Eccleston and Jo Thompson - Byrne for their enthusiasm and efforts in promoting the Marine Institute at what has been hailed as the ‘best ever’ Ocean Business exhibitions.

The Marine Institute team on the Stand at Ocean Business 2011

L-R Jo Thompson - Byrne, Luke Arthur, Frankie Peckett with Plymouth graduate Lisette Rimmer