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April 1-3, 2025
Hilton University of Houston
Houston, TX

Shelby Thomas

Shelby Thomas

CEO
Tidal Sails US


Dr. Shelby Thomas is the CEO of Tidal Sails US, a company dedicated to advancing sustainable ocean energy solutions. With a background in marine science and conservation, Thomas brings a unique perspective to the renewable energy sector. At Tidal Sails US, she leads efforts to develop and implement innovative tidal energy technologies that harness the power of ocean currents to generate clean electricity.

By transforming ocean currents into electricity through an innovative cable-and-sail mechanism, Tidal Sails aims to provide a scalable, environmentally friendly solution that can be deployed globally, potentially revolutionizing marine-based renewable energy production.

As CEO, Thomas oversees strategic partnerships, technology development, and project implementation for Tidal Sails US. She is committed to driving the transition towards renewable energy sources and contributing to the global effort to combat climate change through innovative ocean-based solutions. Her expertise in marine ecosystems and sustainable development has been instrumental in ensuring that the company’s technologies work in harmony with ocean environments.

In addition to her role at Tidal Sails US, Dr. Thomas is the founder and CEO of Ocean Rescue Alliance (ORA), a marine conservation and restoration non-profit organization. Under her leadership, ORA has deployed over 200 reef installations in Florida, launched the innovative 1000 Mermaids Artificial Reef Project, and implemented the Coral Rangers citizen science program. Thomas has also established key partnerships to advance marine restoration efforts, combining art, science, and community engagement in her approach to ocean conservation.

Dr. Thomas holds a Ph.D. in Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences from the University of Florida, where she previously earned her M.S. in Interdisciplinary Ecology and B.S. in Marine Science and Microbiology.