CHEERS OCEANEERS! Graeme Rae, PhD CEO of HyperKelp Inc.

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CHEERS OCEANEERS! July 8th 2026

Graeme Rae, PhD CEO of HyperKelp Inc.

Trends in Ocean Sensing: From Exquisite Platforms to Distributed Maritime Networks

This month, we have a very special presenter, our very own, the Vice Chairman of Oceanic Engineering Society, San Diego Chapter, Graeme Rae! Graeme is also the CEO of HyperKelp Inc.

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Welcome to the monthly event for the IEEE Oceanic Engineering Society (OES), San Diego Chapter, which is hosting this meeting jointly along with TMA BlueTech (The Maritime Alliance), and MTS (Marine Technology Society).

Please join us for the main presentation and also plenty of time for networking and friendly conversation about everything oceanic, engineering, science, Blue Tech, and more. No need to be an IEEE or OES member, or TMA, or MTS. Everyone is invited!

When:
2nd Wednesdays
5:30pm - 7:30pm

Where:
Quantum Brewing
5375 Kearny Villa Rd #116
San Diego, CA 92123
Cost:
No ticket required, but please order something for yourself from the bar (beer and non-alcohol options avail).
Please note, there are numerous tasty restaurants next to Quantum (e.g., Anny's Burger, Chinese, Pho, Taco shop, Lao, Filippis) and there is no problem bringing your food in (some places will even walk it over).

Agenda:
5:30pm: Arrival and networking, order food/drinks for yourself.
6:15pm: OES and other hosting group announcements.
6:20pm: Main Presentation
6:40pm (approximately): “open mic” for any other attendees to present anything they like -ocean-related, of course (Examples: employers presenting opportunities for employment, job seekers presenting a quick bio, internship program opportunities, promoting other events, seeking funding, “show and tell” of any cool technology you are working on, etc.)
7:00pm to close: enjoy some drinks and chatting with fellow oceanic engineering enthusiasts.

RSVPs are appreciated for planning purposes.
https://events.vtools.ieee.org/m/565334

TOPIC:
The nature of maritime sensing is changing rapidly. Advances in low-cost sensors, AI, communications, autonomy, and commercial manufacturing are enabling a transition from a handful of highly capable systems to large-scale networks of inexpensive, intelligent sensing platforms.
Drawing on recent engagements with NATO, defense organizations, industry, and international technology conferences, this talk examines the technical and operational trends shaping the next generation of ocean sensing. Topics include distributed sensing, edge AI, autonomous systems, persistent maritime surveillance, and the implications of the growing emphasis on "small, cheap, and many."
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SPEAKER
Graeme Rae PhD, CEO HyperKelp Inc.
Innovative Environmental and Defense Scientist | Data Systems Architect | Expert in Smart Buoy Technology

I am passionate about leveraging advanced technology to address real-world environmental and security challenges. With extensive experience in marine systems, environmental data collection, and long-endurance unmanned vehicles, I’ve developed cutting-edge tools to enhance environmental monitoring and defense tech.

One of my key accomplishments is forming the company that develops the Kelp Smart Buoy-an innovative, long-endurance unmanned surface vehicle designed for robust environmental monitoring. By integrating solar power and hosting a versatile payload platform, this system offers extended operational capabilities for various scientific applications, from wave and wind measurement to temperature analysis. I am also spearheading projects to improve tsunami forecasting by designing systems that provide NOAA and NWS with enhanced data for their predictive models, helping to protect vulnerable populations.

I have had the privilege of working closely with the US Navy and US Air Force to develop advanced military sensors, contributing to national defense by designing systems capable of detecting and classifying multiple threats including hypersonic weapons systems.

Driven by curiosity and a commitment to problem-solving, I continue to collaborate with leading scientists and organizations, creating scalable, sustainable solutions that improve our understanding of the environment.

Prior to founding HyperKelp,I have 10 years experience teaching Ocean Engineering at the graduate level and 20 years experience in engineering software and hardware development. I developed the first generation of AUVs while at Florida Atlantic University and Florida Tech and produced novel and patented ballast control systems and vehicle navigation systems. I was one of the original founders of Surfline.com, developing and maintaining all scientific and technical aspects of the world’s most accurate marine forecasting and popular surf company.

I ran a cutting edge marine and ocean engineering consulting business with clients including Samsung, Total Oil, SpaceX, Defense POW/MIA Accounting Agency, Army Corps of Engineers and USCG/USN Special forces and AquaAI - developing advanced robotic swimming sensor platforms for water quality measurements in Aquaculture facilities.
http://www.hyperkelp.com
Meet me: https://cal.mixmax.com/graemerae/30