An internationally respected leader with more than 30 years of executive experience spanning marine technology, defense, government, academia, and nonprofit leadership, Connon joins MTS following senior leadership roles at Saildrone, the University of Southern Mississippi, The Hydrographic Society of America, and nearly three decades of distinguished service in the United States Navy.
Connon’s appointment reflects MTS’s continued evolution from a traditional professional society into a platform organization that connects the global marine technology community. As MTS expands its impact through technical communities, workforce development, innovation programs, publications, strategic partnerships, and global convenings, Connon brings deep cross-sector experience needed to lead that work forward.
“Brian understands the ocean enterprise because he’s helped shape it,” said Chris Ostrander, CEO of MTS. “He’s led across defense, government, academia, nonprofit, and industry, which is exactly the breadth of experience needed as MTS continues connecting these communities. His ability to translate strategy into execution will help ensure we continue delivering meaningful value for our members and partners.”
As Chief Operating Officer, Connon will serve as MTS’s senior operational leader and strategic partner to the CEO, helping strengthen the organizational foundation that supports the Society’s continued growth, member value, and expanding portfolio of programs and partnerships.
“What excites me most about MTS is the opportunity to help strengthen an organization that is bringing the entire marine technology community together,” said Connon. “Throughout my career, I’ve seen the greatest progress happen when industry, government, academia, and nonprofit organizations work toward a shared purpose. MTS is uniquely positioned to connect those communities, accelerate innovation, and develop the next generation of ocean leaders. I’m honored to join the team and help build the operational foundation that enables that mission.”
Most recently, Connon served as Vice President of Ocean Mapping at Saildrone, leading autonomous ocean mapping initiatives in partnership with government, industry, and academia. Earlier in his career, he held senior leadership roles as Director of the Hydrographic Science Research Center at the University of Southern Mississippi and as President of The Hydrographic Society of America. During nearly three decades of distinguished service in the United States Navy, he served as Superintendent of the US Naval Observatory and led the Maritime Safety Office at the National Geospatial-Intelligence Agency prior to retiring as a Captain.
As MTS continues to strengthen its role across the global ocean enterprise, Connon’s appointment reflects the Society’s commitment to building the leadership capacity needed to support its growing community, strengthen strategic partnerships, and accelerate the advancement of marine technology.
