The Chicago Propeller Club is announcing a refresh of its board to kick off a new two year term from January 2026.

Polaris Media founder Ben Pinnington is promoted to President from club VP as Chris Carr ends his two-year Presidency and moves to the Past President role on the board. Carr was named Propellerist of the Year by the International Propeller Club in 2025.

Brooke Picillo Baldassari from BP America

Scott Sigman of Equinanimous Advisory Services meanwhile steps up to club treasurer role as Erik Varela the executive director of Illinois International Port District moves to board officer. Brooke Picillo Baldassari from BP America, a former US Navy Lieutenant and merchant marine seafarer joins the board to help promote maritime careers and support of veterans.

Ben Pinnington

Ian Hirt, from Benchmark Marine and Ports of Indiana remains in post as club secretary with Chad Cailteux owner of 5R Enterprises, Jason Brown of Lakes and Rivers Contracting and Warren Marwedel of Marwedel, Minichello & Reeb law firm remaining as board officers.

Pinnington said the club will be making further appointments in 2026 as it aims to grow its niche as the primary maritime networking organization, representing all segments of the maritime industry, on the Great Lakes.

Scott Sigman

“We’d like to thank Chris and Erik for all their efforts and look forward to continuing to work with them on our expanding board,” he said. “Maritime has its highest profile in decades with billions poised to be invested via the SHIPS Act and new ice breaker programs. We want to attract more of that work here to Chicago and the Midwest and champion all the fantastic maritime businesses here from engineering firms to shipyards, ports, vessel operators, logistics companies and professional services firms. Our aim is to make a positive difference offering members and sponsors high quality networking to grow their businesses. We further want to encourage more young people into exciting maritime careers and promote the Great Lakes and Inland waterways as the most fuel efficient, environmentally friendly form of transport.”

Chicago Propeller Club immediate past president Chris Carr

The new board confirmed continuing to support seafarer charities like Stella Maris Chicago and veterans charities like No Salt Sailing will remain a focus of the club with veteran led businesses receiving complimentary membership.

Eric Varela executive director of Illinois International Port District speaks at Chicago Propeller Club

The Chicago Propeller Club also confirmed its four primary events for 2026:

• Industry networking at Buddy Guy’s Legends – March 19
• Maritime Day luncheon cruise from Navy Pier with City Cruises – May 22
• VIP reception ahead of the American Great Lakes Ports Association conference – July 29
• Industry networking event – October 28
Source: Chicago Propeller Club