Convention Agenda

Wednesday, October 29, 2025
6:30 pm – 8:30pm NMPA Industry Welcome Reception
  • President’s Welcome and Event Overview
  • Cocktails and Networking

Thursday, Oct 30, 2025
7:00am

 

 REGISTRATION OPENS
8:00am - 11am

NMPA President's Industry Breakfast & Keynote

Enjoy a full breakfast while hearing from an influential keynote speaker discussing trends and innovation in the marine propulsion industry.

  • 9:00 am - President’s Welcome Remarks
  • 9:15 am - Keynote Presentation - Ben Sorkin, Flux Marine - “From Propellers to Propulsion Systems” - How a lifetime of tinkering with old outboards and modifying propellers led to the genesis of Flux Marine and major innovations in electric propulsion.
  • 10:15 am – Solas Presentation – Dr. Solas Lin, Solas Science & Engineering Co., Ltd. - History of Solas and new product line.


11:00 am – 11:15 am

 

 Break: Member Networking
 
11:15 am – 12:00 pm

Session 1:

Wake Adapted Hardware 101: Intro to Performance, Cost, and Savings
 

 

Speaker:

David Juhlin, Michigan Wheel
12:00 pm – 1:00 pm
   LUNCH
 

1:00 pm – 1:45 pm

 Session 2: Beyond Repair: Identifying Non-Repairable Propellers
 
  • DNR (Do Not Repair) - Just like a surgeon knows when not to operate, a skilled propeller technician must know when not to repair. This seminar equips marine professionals with the diagnostic tools and judgment calls needed to identify when a propeller is beyond safe or economical repair. We’ll explore the structural, material, and operational red flags that signal “replace, don’t restore”—ensuring technicians protect vessel performance, client safety, and professional integrity.
Speakers:

Stew Foster, Prop Masters
Colton Watson, Precision Propeller

 
1:45 pm – 2:00 pm  

BREAK: Member Networking
 

2:00 pm – 2:45 pm

 Session 3: Innovations in New Propellers, Technology, Tools & Repair Techniques
  This session offers a dynamic showcase of cutting-edge advancements in marine propulsion—from next-gen propeller geometries and hybrid drive systems to precision balancing tools and digital diagnostics. Attendees will explore how evolving technologies are reshaping performance, efficiency, and serviceability of wheels across vessel classes.
Speaker:

Doug Peck, New England Propeller
 
2:45 pm – 3:00 pm
  

BREAK: Member Networking
 

3:00 pm – 3:45 pm

 Session 4: Pivoting Creates Small Business Success
  In today’s shifting marine service landscape, change isn’t a threat—it’s a signal. This seminar empowers propeller repair specialists/business to recognize operational disruptions, market shifts, and evolving customer expectations as catalysts for growth. Through targeted case studies and practical frameworks, participants will learn how to reframe setbacks, implement strategic pivots and transform obstacles into assets. Whether you're navigating post-pandemic shifts, adapting to new customer expectations, or facing competitive pressure, this session offers actionable insights to help your business stay relevant, resilient, and ready for what’s next.
  Speaker:

Terry Dyer, SurfacePrep
 
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Roundtable Discussions: Shop Talk: Propelling Excellence in Service Deliverability

Join fellow marine propulsion professionals for a focused roundtable exploring the evolving landscape of propulsion systems and propeller repair. In small-group format, participants will exchange insights on the tools and systems driving efficiency, share real-world pain points, and unpack the impact emerging technologies. The session will spotlight adaptive business strategies that help businesses stay competitive, compliant, and future-ready.
  Facilitators:

Greg Sharrow, Sharrow Marine and Ben Sorkin, Flux Marine
 
5:00 pm – 6:00 pm   BREAK / FREE TIME
 
6:00 pm – 8:00 pm  

NMPA Marine Industry Cocktail Happy Hour

 
Friday, Oct 31, 2025
8:00 am – 10:00 am  

NMPA Propulsion Awards Breakfast & Annual Meeting
   
  • 9:15 am - President’s Welcome Remarks & Association Update
  • 9:25 am - NMPA Awards of Excellence Presentations
  • 9:35 am - Annual Board of Director Elections

10:15 am – 11:30 am

Session 5: Pricing Trends & Strategies and Shop Tips & Tricks
  In a competitive marine service market, pricing isn’t just about numbers—it’s about positioning, value, and sustainability. This seminar dives into current pricing trends in the propulsion repair industry, offering actionable strategies for setting rates that reflect skill, materials, and market demand. Whether you're refining your rate sheet or optimizing daily operations, this session equips technicians and shop owners with the tools to price confidently, operate efficiently, and grow sustainably.
  Speaker: Jody Bell, Osbourne Propeller