John Rhatigan, Marine Machinery Association
Meet John Rhatigan
John Rhatigan is not your typical industry leader. Charismatic, kind, and endlessly interesting, he has an incredible quality that makes everyone feel like a fast friend. As former president and now chairman of the Machine Marine Association (MMA), he has a vision that extends far beyond the confines of boardrooms and industry conferences.
Cigar Bar at the Sea Air Space Conference
It was 5:00 pm and the Sea Air Space Conference was in full swing. Amidst the sea of suits and ties, John stood out with his branded bow tie, a symbol of his unique blend of tradition and innovation. We spotted him at standing out at a sponsored cigar bar event, a setting that perfectly encapsulates his belief in the power of connections forged over shared experiences, or in this case cigars and cocktails.
As guests mingled and exchanged stories, it became clear why John had chosen to sponsor this particular event. His leadership is not just about business; it’s about fostering authentic connections among industry professionals. He understands that true innovation stems from collaboration and camaraderie, not just technical expertise.
A Great Leader
We had some fun lighthearted conversation and learned that John loves IPAs and that he has a lot to do with Chicago’s current highway traffic (that’s a story for a different time). We also learned that he’s working on two initiatives for MMA: attracting new talent to the maritime industry and growing the association’s membership with like-minded individuals. He recognizes the need to adapt to the changing preferences of the younger generation, who prioritize experiences and work-life balance over traditional notions of success.
With his growth mindset and progressive thinking, John is helping to reshape the industry from within. He is challenging “old-school” companies to rethink their approach to talent recruitment and retention, emphasizing the importance of fostering a culture that values innovation and inclusivity.
We saw him in action, making his rounds around the event. He’s a mentor and a friend to many, always willing to lend an ear or offer guidance to those navigating their careers in the maritime sector. His passion for the industry is infectious, inspiring others to join his quest for meaningful change.
Behind every thread, there’s a story.
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