Let's Talk Post-COVID

摘要

As we move into the spring of 2021, there are many positive indicators that the worst of the pandemic will soon be behind us, and that we can plan with reasonable confidence for a less constrained future. SMC 2021 in Providence is shaping up to be an excellent event, with a world-class papers program and a modernized overall format. Naturally, SNAME also is maintaining a range of contingency plans in case nature has any more curveballs to throw at us. One group that continues to be hit hard by COVID is that of our student members. The pivot to online learning in most universities and colleges has limited the possible course content in some areas, despite the best efforts of professors and staff. Even more affected have been the internships and work terms that many students rely on both for practical experience and financial assistance. (For more on how student members have been dealing with the pandemic, see the Education section, beginning on page 64 in this issue.) I'd like to urge all of our members with decision-making responsibilities for hiring students to encourage your organizations to explore what can be done. You may also want to familiarize yourselves with the support programs that have been put in place at some national and local levels to encourage hiring. This also goes for the crop of new graduates who will soon be entering the workforce. Let's welcome them into the profession.