The rapid pace of technological change across the shipping industry is transforming how vessels are operated, but risks leaving seafarers behind if human factors are not prioritised.
That is the focus of an upcoming webinar hosted by The Nautical Institute [2], in collaboration with Lloyd’s Register Foundation [3], which will bring together senior voices from across the maritime sector to examine the real-world impact of digitalisation, connectivity and emerging technologies on those working at sea.
As shipping adopts greater vessel connectivity, new equipment and AI-enabled systems, operational practices are evolving quickly. However, questions remain around how these changes affect seafarer workload, decision-making, skills requirements and overall wellbeing.
The session will explore how technological development, equipment design, workforce capability and seafarer welfare are closely interconnected and why maintaining a human-centred approach is essential
to ensuring safety, effective operations and a fair transition for the maritime workforce.
The webinar will feature contributions from:
- Captain Ann Pletschke CMMar FNI [4], STEER Project Lead, The
Nautical Institute - Tim Slingsby [5], Director of Skills and Education, Lloyd’s
Register Foundation - Captain Eero Lehtovaara AFNI [6], Head of Regulatory and Public
Affairs, ABB - Captain Kuba Szymanski FNI [7], Secretary General, InterManager
- Bob Doncom FIMarEST [8], Principal Consultant, IMarEST
- Simon Grainge [9], Chief Executive, ISWAN
Together, the panel will share perspectives from across industry, regulation, welfare and technology to discuss how maritime stakeholders can better align innovation with the needs of seafarers.
The discussion forms part of the STEER Project, led by The Nautical Institute in collaboration with Lloyd’s Register Foundation. Through a focus on #ListeningToSeafarers, the project explores how technological change can be aligned with improved operational safety, as well as stronger protections for seafarer safety and welfare.
The session will be interactive, with participants invited to contribute questions and insights. All attendees will receive a certificate of participation.
Event details:
Date: Tuesday 31 March 2026
Time: 09:00–10:00 UTC (10:00–11:00 BST)
Register: C [10]lick Here [11]
Lloyd’s Register Foundation is an independent global charity that supports research, innovation and education to make the world a safer place. It uses the best available evidence and insight to help the global community focus on tackling the world’s most pressing safety challenges.
The Nautical Institute is a global not-for-profit professional membership organisation and a leading authority in the maritime industry. Our mission is to enable better decision-making by working together, sharing ideas and best practice, to provide a safer, environmentally sound and sustainable maritime industry.
