2025 President’s Invitation Lecture
The President’s Invitation Lecture is one of the most significant events in the Royal Institution of Naval Architects’ (RINA) annual calendar. This prestigious occasion brings together leading experts in the maritime sector to address some of the industry’s most pressing and topical issues. Each year, the lecture serves as a platform for insightful discussion, innovation, and forward-thinking ideas that shape the future of the maritime industry.
The 2024 lecture, presented by Jonathan Stephens from BWX Technologies, Inc., provided an in-depth look at the feasibility and future role of nuclear power in maritime decarbonisation. The talk was followed by a panel discussion moderated by RINA’s President, Catriona Savage, where Stephens was joined by Dr. Spyros Hirdaris from the American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Sarah Watts, Chair of the RINA Safety Committee. The session highlighted the need for cross-disciplinary training, regulatory alignment, and public outreach to advance nuclear propulsion in commercial shipping.
Building on the success of the 2024 lecture, the 2025 President’s Invitation Lecture promises another compelling topic delivered by a distinguished speaker. This year’s lecture will be hosted as part of The Naval Architect 2025, RINA’s new flagship annual membership event, taking place on 24th-25th November at the Technology & Innovation Centre (TIC) in Glasgow, United Kingdom. This two-day gathering will bring together RINA members from across the maritime sector to explore the latest developments in naval architecture, discuss industry challenges, and shape the future of our profession. Sessions will be led by RINA’s Developing Careers and Technical Committees, covering key topics such as IMO regulations, environmental sustainability, safety, and innovation. The event is designed to support and inspire members at all career stages. More details and ticket information for The Naval Architect 2025 – Membership Event can be found here.
At the 2025 President’s Invitation Lecture, attendees will gain valuable insights from a thought-provoking presentation by a leading figure in the maritime industry. The lecture will be followed by a dynamic panel discussion, providing a forum for critical engagement on the topic.
Why Attend?
- Engage with top maritime professionals and thought leaders
- Participate in an interactive session featuring a renowned industry expert
- Enjoy an exclusive drinks reception and a networking dinner
- Connect with RINA members and discover the benefits of joining our global community
This event offers a unique opportunity to stay informed on industry developments, expand professional networks, and gain key insights into the future of naval architecture and maritime engineering.
Interested in attending the event? Register your interest here and be the first to know when more details become available! The event is open to RINA Members and Non-Members.
Registration
Cancellations received less than two weeks before the event cannot be accepted and are subject to the full event fee. Delegates may be substituted; however, this must be sent in writing and confirmed with the RINA Events Team. It may be necessary for reasons beyond our control to alter the content and timing of the programme. In the unlikely event that RINA cancels the event for any reason, our liability is limited to the return of the registration fee.
Sponsorship Opportunities
RINA events provide the perfect opportunity for effective and highly targeted marketing. Sponsorship and exhibition opportunities exist for all of our events. If you have any questions regarding the event or wish to discuss the available sponsorship/exhibition opportunities, please get in touch with the RINA Events team at events@rina.org.uk
Personal Data
Please note that personal data, such as name, company, and job title will be collected and provided in the delegate list format to the event attendees. No contact details will be included in the delegate list. If you would like to not be included in the list for any reason, please inform the RINA Events Team at events@rina.org.uk
RINA events code of behaviour
The Royal Institution of Naval Architects is proud to have a diverse membership and aims for all members, guests, and attendees to enjoy their time at RINA events. Just as we expect others to treat us courteously, we should also extend courtesy to fellow members, guests, and attendees.
If any attendee at a RINA event feels that another’s behaviour towards them is unwelcome, disrespectful, or undignified, they should inform the RINA staff member or get in touch with us at events@rina.org.uk
Anyone deemed to be acting discourteously towards other attendees will be asked to leave the event.
Filming/Photography
Please note that filming/photography will be taking place at this event for promotional and archival purposes. The photographs and recordings made are likely to appear on our website and social media. If you would prefer not to be photographed please let the Marketing team know at marketing@rina.org.uk.
