80th Annual Shellfish Conference and Tradeshow Sessions

Women in our industry thrive when we have opportunities to connect, support one another, and build lasting relationships. Strong women need other strong women to lean on, learn from, and laugh with. Join us for another memorable gathering where women from across the shellfish industry can come together to share experiences, exchange ideas, and build connections that extend far beyond the conference. Whether you're reconnecting with longtime colleagues or meeting new friends, this event provides a welcoming space to network, inspire one another, and celebrate the incredible women who help our industry thrive.

*Growers Only Workshop - Please only select one session* Media Interview Workshop: Practice Before It Matters, Tuesday, September 15 | 3:00–4:00 p.m. Presenter: Maria Smithson, Director of Membership & Marketing, National Aquaculture Association Talking with reporters, policymakers, or community members can feel very different when the questions become challenging. This workshop gives participants the opportunity to practice real-world interview scenarios, refine key messages, and receive individualized feedback in a small-group setting. Through mock interviews and discussion, participants will build confidence and practical skills they can use during media opportunities, public meetings, and communication with policy makers.

*Growers Only Workshop - Please only select one session* Media Interview Workshop: Practice Before It Matters, Tuesday, September 15 | 4:00–5:00 p.m. Presenter: Maria Smithson, Director of Membership & Marketing, National Aquaculture Association Talking with reporters, policymakers, or community members can feel very different when the questions become challenging. This workshop gives participants the opportunity to practice real-world interview scenarios, refine key messages, and receive individualized feedback in a small-group setting. Through mock interviews and discussion, participants will build confidence and practical skills they can use during media opportunities, public meetings, and communication with policy makers.

*Growers Only Workshop - Please only select one session* Media Interview Workshop: Practice Before It Matters, Tuesday, September 15 | 5:00–6:00 p.m. Presenter: Maria Smithson, Director of Membership & Marketing, National Aquaculture Association Talking with reporters, policymakers, or community members can feel very different when the questions become challenging. This workshop gives participants the opportunity to practice real-world interview scenarios, refine key messages, and receive individualized feedback in a small-group setting. Through mock interviews and discussion, participants will build confidence and practical skills they can use during media opportunities, public meetings, and communication with policy makers.

O.H.! – (Only Hatchery!) Our revered hatchery dudes - Nate Tsao and Brian Koval - are up to something different this year! Stepping away from the crowds and those who pay the bills, this session is reserved ONLY for HATCHERY folk. Don’t worry, “how to support growers” will be a topic of discussion! Proof of the ability to use a microscope to count larvae required!