17th Nov 2026 08:30
(excluding VAT)
Please note you need to be a member of RINA in order to attend this event
Join us for The Naval Architect 2026, RINA's flagship membership event, bringing together naval architects, maritime professionals, industry leaders, academics and students for a day of discussion, knowledge sharing and networking. Building on the success of last year's event, the programme has been shaped by member feedback to deliver even more opportunities to engage in the issues that matter most to our profession.
In 2025, the event welcomed 147 attendees from 72 organisations, including representatives from around 20 international organisations and four shipowner/operator companies. Delegates came from leading maritime organisations such as BAE Systems, Babcock International, Lloyd's Register, MARIN and CMA CGM, alongside academics, regulators and naval architects from across the sector.
Taking place in Southampton, the event will explore the key challenges and opportunities facing the maritime sector, from career development and diversity to decarbonisation, autonomous vessels, artificial intelligence, safety and regulation.
Whether you are an experienced professional, an emerging leader or a student entering the industry, this event offers a valuable opportunity to gain insights, expand your network and help shape the future of maritime.
Career Development & Inclusion
Our opening session will feature presentations and panel discussions focused on developing careers in maritime, STEM engagement, diversity and inclusion, and supporting professionals through career breaks and career transitions.
Innovation & Environmental Sustainability
Hear from leading voices across the industry as they discuss decarbonisation pathways, emerging technologies, autonomous vessels, small craft innovation and the growing role of artificial intelligence in maritime operations and design.
IMO & Maritime Safety
Gain valuable insights into the latest developments in regulation, compliance and safety. This session will examine key issues impacting the global maritime community and the future direction of industry standards.
Membership Update
Introduced following member feedback from The Naval Architect 2025, this dedicated session will provide updates from RINA's membership, professional affairs and publications committees. Learn more about ongoing initiatives, future priorities and how members can become more involved in shaping the institution.
The Members Hour
Join fellow members for an open discussion on the future of RINA and the wider maritime profession. Share your perspectives, influence future initiatives and contribute to the development of the membership experience.
Sponsorship opportunities are available exclusively to RINA Corporate Partners and Universities, providing a focused platform to showcase expertise, strengthen visibility and connect with RINA members.
17th Nov 2026 08:30
(excluding VAT)
Please note you need to be a member of RINA in order to attend this event
Please click "Submit Abstract" and fill out a questionnaire if you would like to contribute by either presenting or sitting on a panel.
Submission deadline: 18 September 2026
Submit AbstractAttendees will discuss:
1. How do we attract more people into naval architecture and maritime engineering?
2. How can industry provide greater access to practical and seagoing experience?
3. What skills will employers need over the next decade?
4. How can industry, academia and professional institutions work more effectively together?
5. What barriers are preventing growth within the profession?
6. What should RINA prioritise to support future talent and industry growth?
Attendees will explore:
What innovation will have the greatest impact on the maritime industry over the next decade?
How can naval architects contribute most effectively to decarbonisation efforts?
What lessons from major accidents and investigations should continue to inform future vessel design and operation?
How can the industry accelerate innovation whilst maintaining safety and reliability?
What skills and expertise will future naval architects require to address emerging challenges?
Panel Participants:
An update on initiatives to enhance member value and strengthen engagement across the global membership community.
How do we ensure RINA membership continues to represent the highest standards of professional competence and achievement?
How do we support professionals throughout their careers and strengthen the future of the profession?
Discussion topics include:
Stu is the Chief Executive and a Board Director of Maritime Solent, having led the organisation since its inception. An economic development specialist by background, he previously spent a decade shaping economic strategy and major investment programmes at the Solent Local Enterprise Partnership.
Born, raised and living in the region, Stu’s connection to the maritime sector runs far beyond professional interest; it is part of his identity and the story of the coastal community he grew up in.
Stu also plays a leading role nationally and internationally as Chair of the UK Maritime Regions Network and founder of the Global Maritime Regions Network, strengthening collaboration across the UK’s maritime regions and connecting the Solent to a growing global community of maritime economies.
