SNAME Maritime Convention 2025 to prioritise digital innovation and US shipbuilding revival
The Society of Naval Architects & Marine Engineers (SNAME) is preparing to host its 132nd annual SNAME Maritime Convention (SMC 2025) from October 29 to 31, 2025, at the Hilton Norfolk The Main in Norfolk, Virginia. This year's event is set to offer a comprehensive programme under the theme “Technology Transfer – Bringing Global Best Practices to the Maritime Industry,” aiming to bring together professionals from industry, academia, and government worldwide to share expertise and collaborate on future maritime advancements.
The convention promises an expanded agenda, commencing with pre-convention activities on October 29, including short courses and workshops designed for professional development hour (PDH) certification credits. These sessions will provide deep insights into specialised maritime topics. Notably, the International Conference on Fast Sea Technology (FAST 2025) will run concurrently, focusing on the digital design of high-speed craft and covering innovative hull forms, propulsion systems—which include electric and alternative fuels—regulatory challenges, safety, and environmental impacts. Additionally, students will have the opportunity to tour Colonna’s Shipyard, gaining essential hands-on exposure to vessel operations.
The heart of the convention on October 30 and 31 will feature keynote addresses, including a critical session titled “Rebuilding America’s Shipbuilding Power – A Call to Action,” which will address vital challenges facing the U.S. shipbuilding sector. This theme resonates with ongoing national efforts to revitalise American shipbuilding capabilities in response to economic, security, and technological demands. The programme will also include expert panel discussions on pressing industry topics such as icebreaker design and construction, integrated digital environments (IDE), the energy transition, and the use of nuclear power for commercial vessels. Technical sessions will span a wide range of themes including ship production and repair, alternative fuels, environmental challenges, marine engineering, safety, and regulation, all contributing to a rich professional development experience.
Student engagement constitutes a key highlight of SMC 2025. The student design competition invites university teams to present innovative vessel designs, with winners honoured at the President’s Reception. Outstanding student papers will also be recognised across multiple categories, showcasing fresh academic excellence and fostering the next generation of maritime professionals.
Complementing the technical programme, the convention offers numerous networking and social events. These include a President’s Reception hosted by SNAME President Richard Mueller, providing a relaxed setting for informal networking. The Gala Dinner and Awards Banquet will celebrate industry achievements, presenting medals and awards to individuals who have made significant contributions to the field. The event will also feature a Members Lounge for informal interaction and a silent art auction celebrating maritime heritage through commissioned artworks.
SMC 2025 benefits from substantial support by a range of industry sponsors, including major names such as Ashcroft Engineering & Analytics, BWXT, Chevron, Kongsberg, Leidos Gibbs & Cox, and General Dynamics Bath Iron Works, demonstrating the convention’s relevance and prominence within the sector. Media partners include key maritime publications like Marine Log, Maritime Executive, and Green Marine, ensuring that the convention’s insights and developments receive broad coverage.
Founded in 1893, SNAME is an internationally recognised, nonprofit professional society dedicated to advancing naval architecture, marine engineering, and related ocean professions. With a global membership exceeding 4,000 professionals across 95 countries, SNAME plays a pivotal role in fostering innovation and collaboration within the maritime industry.
Given the breadth of technical topics, industry expertise, and networking opportunities, SMC 2025 stands out as a critical event for maritime professionals seeking to stay at the forefront of technological innovation and industry best practices. Its comprehensive programme reflects the sector's evolving needs, particularly in areas such as digital design integration, environmental sustainability, and modern propulsion technologies.