The twentieth annual Maritime Technology Conference (H.I.M.T.) was held on October 6 and 7, 2026, at the Eugenides Foundation in Athens. The event began with a pre-conference on October 5 at the V.Ships hall in Piraeus and was organized to celebrate the twentieth anniversary of the establishment of this institute.
Attendance of Representatives from the Shipping Industry and Universities
This conference, with over 900 registered representatives from the shipping industry, academic and research institutions, government organizations, and businesses, demonstrated a strong interest in technological developments shaping the future of shipping.
Technological and Innovation Challenges in Shipping
Mr. George Paratikakis, President of H.I.M.T., highlighted the significance of the anniversary and the role of this conference in scientific and technical exchange during the opening of the conference. He emphasized that this institute, established in 1972 as an independent scientific organization, continues to operate and can serve as a bridge between research, academic knowledge, and the shipping industry.
During this conference, challenges related to energy transition, digitalization, artificial intelligence, and cybersecurity were discussed, and innovation and investment in human resources were identified as essential prerequisites for the competitiveness of Greek shipping.
Two main panels addressed the challenges and prospects of modern shipping. The first panel titled "Energy Supply in Shipping under Uncertain Conditions" focused on the challenges of transitioning to alternative fuels and safety considerations, while the second panel discussed the volatility of the shipping market and the prospects for sustainable growth and profitability in changing economic conditions.
The conference concluded with a roundtable discussion titled "Ships Change Faster than Humans" that examined the needs and skills required for the maritime workforce of the future. This roundtable was led by Mr. Nicholas Liapis, Director of H.I.M.T., and included prominent figures from the shipping industry.
This event concluded on October 7 with a formal dinner at the Piraeus Yacht Club, where a commemorative plaque was awarded in memory of Mr. George Vezikis, a former member of this institute. The twentieth annual Maritime Technology Conference emphasizes the vital role of H.I.M.T. in advancing science and innovation in the shipping industry.
