Episode 95:   Navigating the Houston Ship Channel - Challenges and Innovation with Captain Matthew Glass

Episode 95:   Navigating the Houston Ship Channel - Challenges and Innovation with Captain Matthew Glass Guest: Captain Matthew Glass, Pilot and Second Officer on the Houston Pilot’s Executive Committee Episode Overview: In this episode of The Last Dinosaur – Maritime Shipping in the Digital Age, Chris Aversano welcomes Captain Matthew Glass, a seasoned pilot on the Houston Ship Channel. They dive into the evolving landscape of one of the busiest ports in the world, exploring topics like infrastructure upgrades, digitalization, social media, and the challenges posed by decarbonization and engine power limitations. Key Points & Quotes: Captain Glass’s Journey: "My dream from a young age was to be a pilot. Growing up near Galveston Bay, it was all I wanted to do." (02:00) Insight into his maritime career, starting at Texas Maritime Academy and evolving into a leadership role as a Houston pilot. Houston Ship Channel Upgrades: "We’re completing Project 11, a billion-dollar effort to widen the channel to 750 feet. This allows two-way NeoPanamax traffic and boosts efficiency." (03:58) Challenges of Decarbonization: "With these newer engines, power limitations can impact maneuverability. As pilots, we need power for control—not just speed." (08:38) Embracing Digitalization: "We’re almost a technology company. From dispatch systems to pilot navigation units, everything is standardized and data-driven." (13:30) Discussion on innovations like their in-house Pilot Dispatching System (PLS) and collaborations with the U.S. Coast Guard. Social Media for Awareness: "What’s boring to us as pilots is fascinating to others. Social media helps us share our work and educate the public about the port’s importance." (22:13) Workforce Development: "When families learn about maritime opportunities, they’re fascinated. Social media and local partnerships help us attract the next generation." (30:38) Balancing Career and Family: "Most nights, I’m reading Goodnight Farm to my kids. It’s a reminder that there’s more to life than emails and ship stats." (34:26) Learn More: Explore related discussions on the intersection of digitalization and maritime operations in Episode 87: Navigating the Future of Seafarers' Welfare and Maritime Challenges. Tune in Now: Available on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, and more! Watch the episode on YouTube. Music by: Peg and The Rejected 'King of SKA' Art Work By: GA Design Produced by: Chris Aversano Support Our Podcast: If you’ve found value in this episode, please rate us 5-stars and follow. Subscribe to our newsletter for updates. Your support truly makes a difference! Special Mention: Christopher Aversano’s podcast is proud to be a media sponsor of London International Shipping Week, coming in September 2025. Stay tuned for more updates on this exciting collaboration!

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Maritime Digital Evolution with Chris Aversano Dive deep into the maritime world's digital transformation with Chris Aversano, a seasoned maritime professional with three decades of experience both on shore and at sea. Recognizing that the maritime sector has been one of the last to fully embrace the digital age, Chris delves into the pivotal changes now underway. Join Chris as he engages with the trailblazers, innovators, investors, and thought leaders who are steering the maritime industry into the digital future. Whether you're a maritime enthusiast, a tech aficionado, or someone curious about both realms, this podcast promises insightful discussions and a fresh perspective on the maritime digital frontier. Tune in and embark on a journey to explore the digital waves reshaping the maritime world.