RINA 40 Under 40
About the award
RINA has been advancing the art & science of naval architecture since 1860. Who is shaping the future of the profession?
RINA 40 Under 40 is an annual global list from the Royal Institution of Naval Architects, recognising 40 outstanding professionals under the age of 40 who are making a significant contribution to naval architecture, maritime engineering and related technical disciplines.
It spotlights emerging talent from across industry and academia, highlighting individuals whose technical achievement, innovation, leadership and contribution to the profession are helping to shape its future.
Nominees do not need to be RINA members. Those selected will join the RINA 40 Under 40 Class of 2027 and receive complimentary RINA membership for 12 months at the appropriate eligible grade, subject to Membership and governance approval.
Nominate for the Class of 2027
Who can be nominated?
Both self-nominations and nominations of another person will be accepted.
Nominees must meet the following criteria:
- Age: aged 39 or younger on 1st January 2028.
- Geography: worldwide.
- Professional status: currently working professionally within naval architecture, maritime engineering or a directly related technical discipline.
- RINA membership is not required.
What does being selected mean?
Those selected will join the RINA 40 Under 40 Class of 2027, recognising them as part of a new generation of professionals making a significant contribution to naval architecture, maritime engineering and the wider maritime profession.
Members of the Class of 2027 will receive:
- Recognition as one of RINA’s 40 Under 40, with a dedicated profile on the RINA website.
- Visibility across RINA channels, including opportunities for editorial features, interviews and social media profiles.
- Opportunities to contribute to RINA’s professional community, including potential involvement in conferences, panels, webinars, mentoring, technical activities and other initiatives relevant to their expertise.
- Connections across the profession, bringing together a global cohort of emerging professionals from industry and academia.
- Complimentary RINA membership for 12 months at the appropriate eligible grade, subject to Membership and governance approval.
Nominate Now
Nominations for the RINA 40 Under 40 - Class of 2027 close on 31st December 2027.
How are the 40 selected?
Who can be nominated?
Professionals under 40 working within naval architecture, maritime engineering or a directly related technical discipline can be nominated.
Do nominees need to be RINA members?
No. RINA membership is not required to nominate or be selected.
Can I nominate myself?
Yes. Self-nominations and nominations of another person are equally welcome.
What happens if I nominate someone else?
RINA will contact eligible nominees directly before their nomination progresses through the selection process.
Can students be nominated?
The list is primarily intended for working professionals. Individuals undertaking further study alongside an established professional career may still be eligible.
Does someone need to be a naval architect?
No. The list covers naval architecture, maritime engineering and related technical disciplines across the maritime sector.
What does 'under 40' mean?
Nominees must be aged 39 or younger on 1st January 2028.
Can someone be nominated more than once?
Yes, but the number of nominations received will not influence the judging process. One strong nomination is sufficient.
Do nominees need to be based in the UK?
No. RINA 40 Under 40 is a global list and nominations are welcomed from around the world.
Will nominees be contacted?
Eligible nominees may be contacted to confirm or update their details and will have the opportunity to provide additional information for judging. RINA may also contact employers or referees as part of the professional verification process. If a nominee does not respond, their nomination may still be considered based on the information already provided.
Is there a fee to nominate?
No. There is no fee to submit a nomination.