London Branch Event: "Recent Advances and Future Technology Trends in Shipping and Offshore Sectors"

On behalf of the RINA London Branch we would like to invite you to the following event. This event is Hybrid.

 

“Recent Advances and Future Technology Trends in Shipping and Offshore Sectors”

By Dr. Biju George, CEng CMarEng FIMarEST, Principal Hull Integrity Engineer at Oceaneering & Chair IMarEST South East England & London Home Counties

Date:                  Wednesday, 4th February 2026

Time:                 18:00-19:15 hours (duration approximately 1 ¼ hours)

Organiser:         RINA London Branch

Meeting Type:   Hybrid

 

Event Information:

The maritime industry is at a pivotal juncture, driven by the dual imperatives of technological innovation and environmental sustainability. This presentation explores recent advances and future technology trends shaping the shipping and offshore sectors, with a focus on achieving decarbonization targets aligned with IMO and UN climate goals. It examines the transformative role of digitalization, artificial intelligence, and autonomous operations in optimizing vessel performance, enhancing safety, and ensuring regulatory compliance. Key innovations such as digital twins, predictive analytics, and smart energy systems are discussed alongside emerging propulsion solutions, including alternative fuels- LNG, methanol, hydrogen, ammonia - and hybrid electrification strategies. The session also addresses transitional technologies like carbon capture and storage (CCS), economic instruments such as carbon pricing, and the growing importance of cybersecurity in an increasingly connected maritime ecosystem. By integrating regulatory frameworks, technological breakthroughs, and collaborative initiatives, the industry can accelerate its transition toward a resilient, intelligent, and zero-emission future.

Speaker:

Dr. Biju George is a seasoned Marine and Oil & Gas professional with over three decades of global experience spanning marine engineering, naval architecture, and offshore asset integrity. His career includes 80 months at sea and a distinguished track record ashore in leadership roles such as Technical Superintendent, Classification Society Engineer, and currently Principal Hull Integrity Engineer at Oceaneering.

Recognized for pioneering solutions that fuse engineering excellence with advanced technologies, Dr. George has driven innovations in drone-based inspections, underwater ROV operations, AI-powered predictive maintenance, and digital integrity workflows. These initiatives have consistently enhanced safety, minimized operational risk, and advanced sustainability across FPSO and offshore operations.

Honored with multiple Exceptional Performance Awards and the Core Value Coin Award from Azule Energy, BP, and Oceaneering, his recent R&D focuses on AI methodologies for flare emission monitoring and reinforcement learning for maintenance optimization. A committed contributor to the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) since 2010, he has served as Sea Your Future Coordinator, Honorary Secretary, and currently Chairs the IMarEST South East England & London Home Counties Branch. He also acts as a Professional Review Interview Assessor for Engineering Council UK and IMarEST.

Driven by a vision for marine innovation, digital transformation, and decarbonization, Dr. George aligns his work with IMO’s net-zero goals, shaping the future of sustainable maritime operations.

 

ALL are welcome to attend.

CPD certificates will be available upon request.

 

How to Register:

For the “Virtual” event register here.

For “In-Person” event register via