Download PDF version

ABS Chairman and Chief Executive Christopher J. Wiernicki spoke about the application of advanced strategies to improve shipbuilding competitiveness at the Manufacturing at Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) Symposium.

Speaking on the Strengthening Supply Chains and the Industrial Base panel, he outlined an equation for manufacturing success that includes a combination of five key elements working together that will drive the pace of successful and sustainable manufacturing: technology, innovation, change driven by industrial policy and people all divided by the appropriate risk vs risk profile. He also highlighted new nuclear as a potential shipping and shipbuilding game changer.

Future of mass production

Wiernicki delivered a guest lecture to the students and faculty of the MIT Engineering Department

Targeting pioneers of industry, academia, and the public sector, the symposium, titled A Vision for New Manufacturing, explored the future of mass production, including scaling of new technologies and companies, prioritising sustainability and resilience, and creation of high-quality jobs, strengthening the U.S. and world economy. 

Prior to the symposium, Wiernicki delivered a guest lecture to the students and faculty of the MIT Engineering Department. The lecture, Maritime 5.0: The Role of Technology and Innovation as the New Global Shipping Shapers, detailed the challenge and opportunity generated by rapid technological and regulatory change.

Future of smart ships and smart shipbuilding

Wiernicki said: “Cutting-edge technologies are revolutionising shipyard production, pushing boundaries and unlocking new possibilities. Smart features are enhancing health, safety, and quality processes, allowing efficiency and innovation in modern shipbuilding."

"From augmented and virtual reality to 3D engineering, AI-based simulation, digital twins and robotics and automation, these advancements are shaping the future of smart ships and smart shipbuilding.”

Development of cutting-edge technologies

ABS is a founding member of the MIT Maritime Consortium that aims to unite academia and industry to support the development of cutting-edge technologies that aim to transform the sector, including alternative fuel and new nuclear technologies, data-powered strategies for efficient operations and decision making, autonomy and cybersecurity, as well as onboard manufacturing of spare parts.

Download PDF version Download PDF version

In case you missed it

WinGD ammonia engine powers EXMAR LPG carrier
WinGD ammonia engine powers EXMAR LPG carrier

Swiss marine power company WinGD has become the first engine designer to bring an ammonia-fuelled two-stroke marine engine to market following the delivery and installation of its...

Fouling control technologies are even more important for vessel operators following recent IMO MEPC 83 session
Fouling control technologies are even more important for vessel operators following recent IMO MEPC 83 session

Marine industry pioneers gathered at Nor-Shipping in June, with a focus on the key challenges and opportunities driving the transition to a lower-carbon future. With regulations s...

New ABS notation boosts container ship flexibility
New ABS notation boosts container ship flexibility

ABS enhanced its CLP-V(PARR) lashing notation to include a seasonality factor, which gives additional operational flexibility to container ship operators. Introduced in 2024, the...

vfd