Highlights from the 2026 Chicago Shipmasters Industry Day

The Chicago Shipmasters recently gathered in Alsip, IL, at Double Tree By Hilton for a high-impact Shipmasters Industry Day focused on the future of our waterways. Led by President Captain Raymond Novak and the 2026 Board, the message for the year was clear: Safety through Education.

Captain Ray challenged attendees to unite under one goal: Safety through Education. Under the expert moderation of Captain Diamond Gibbs, the day focused on the tools and training needed to protect our waterways.  Here are the critical updates every Chicago maritime stakeholder needs to know:

🏗️ Infrastructure & Navigation Timelines

• Chicago Locks: Chief Mike Walsh (US Army Corps of Engineers) announced the locks will open on April 15, 2026. Maintenance resumes November 13, 2026, with all repairs slated for completion by April 2028.
• Bridge Rehabilitations: Moira Kent (Chicago Department of Transportation) provided updates on the 110-year-old double-deck bascule bridge rehabilitation project on the south branch of the Chicago River and on historic preservation efforts for the Calumet River bridges.
• New Developments: Expect a new River Walk section at Chicago Ave, integrated with the Bally’s Corporation Casino development.

🛡️ Safety & Security Priorities

• Lock Safety: New Lock Master Kyle Zugel, filling the big shoes of newly retired Lock Master Tyrone Valley, is tackling man-overboard (MOB) risks, identifying alcohol and momentum changes during line handling as primary factors.
• Law Enforcement: Lt. Tom Hamilton (CPD Marine & Helicopter Unit) is “putting the ‘police’ back in the Marine Unit,” with a focus on no-wake zones and charter boat regulations, especially during major events like Black Yacht Weekend, Chicago Scene, and Blvckscene.
• Emergency Planning: CASSAN (Calumet Area Safety, Security and Navigation Committee) has formed a subcommittee to develop emergency preparedness plans for the Chicago Skyway Bridge, currently designated as high-risk by the NTSB.

🌊 Diversity & The Future Workforce

• The launch of Maritime Women Making Waves, now part of Shipmasters, marked a pivotal moment for the industry. Jennifer Smith Angone and founding members emphasized that maritime careers are “AI-proof” but often fly under the radar.

“We’re stronger when we look out for each other and stay above the toxic rhetoric that has taken over society.” — Jennifer Angone

• We Work The Waterways: Executive Director Errin Howard is bridging the gap between students and maritime careers. Errin is seeking Chicagoland professionals to speak at upcoming events.
• America’s Maritime Action Plan: Kenny Brown(Founder of Maritime Throwdown) and John McDermott (CHSC) discussed Pillar 2: Reforming Workforce Education. Through competitive skill-building, Maritime Throwdown is revolutionizing how we approach marine safety training.

🎓 Education & Environment

• Boater Safety: Captain Jerry Marecki (CHSC) reminded us that IDNR safety cards are required for anyone born after 1998. Pro tip: IDNR classes are currently FREE. Captain Jerry noted that the lack of education is a primary cause of boating incidents and boating deaths.
• Innovation: Derek Bell (Middle River Marine) is seeking partners for oil remediation technology, noting that the Great Lakes hold 20-22% of the world’s fresh water.

🏆 Honoring Heroism

A huge congratulations to the Jay Crissey Award winners, including Captain Lisa Dixon, for their courageous actions during maritime emergencies. Read the full story on Captain Lisa’s heroism here.

📅 Save the Date

• CASSAN Meeting: April 1
• Bareboat Workshop: Tuesday, April 21, 5:30 PM at Columbia Yacht Club. Registration details coming soon
• We Work The Waterways Event: April 23 at City Colleges of Chicago-Olive-Harvey College.

While the U.S. Coast Guard’s absence (due to the partial government shutdown) was felt, the collaboration among CDOT, CASSAN, law enforcement, CHSC, and numerous other partners ensures that Chicago’s maritime industry remains resilient and forward-thinking.

Huge shout-out to the Chicago Shipmasters Board! This powerhouse team of volunteers worked tirelessly behind the scenes to deliver a world-class event. Thank you for your leadership and for pouring your heart into our maritime future.

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