Page 8: of Maritime Reporter Magazine (April 2025)

Maritime Propulsion

Maritime Propulsion:

THE FUTURE IS NOW

Large Internal Combustion Engines + Digitalization, System Integration, Automation, non-conventional propulsion systems – a changing industry relying on its traditions.

By Rick Boom, Director of Business Development for Woodward and CIMAC President he landscape of large internal combustion engines decisions affecting the international maritime industry. Reviv- (ICEs) is undergoing a signi? cant transformation, ing working groups like WG10, a forum to intensify the dia- especially driven by the forces of digitalization and logue between engine users and manufacturers and introduc-

Tgreen technology. As we navigate this evolving in- ing new event formats are crucial. Expanding our membership dustry, it is essential to recognize the challenges and opportu- network to regions like India, Africa, South America, Austra- nities that lie ahead. lia, and the Arabian Peninsula is a priority. This expansion

The shift towards greener technologies and digital solu- will help us address new topics and challenges. Establishing tions is imperative. This transformation involves integrating new working groups, such as those focused on radiated noise, digitalization, system integration, and automation with tradi- will enable us to tackle emerging issues effectively.

tional ICE knowledge. Among other factors, societal changes The upcoming CIMAC Congress in Zurich, from May 19- are in? uencing the workforce, necessitating a reevaluation of 23, 2025, is an event not to be missed. This global event on the role of humans in the system. This includes handling new large engines, power, drives, and propulsion offers a unique fuels, non-conventional and hybrid propulsion systems, and opportunity to stay updated on industry developments and addressing the challenges posed by digitalization. to discuss technological challenges and solutions with other

Combatting emissions, pollution and noise, has been a long- specialists and colleagues. The Congress will feature over 200 standing concern for our industry. It will remain a crucial chal- presentations, discussion panels, poster sessions, social events, lenge in the future, and we will only be able to successfully ad- and technical tours, attracting experts from around the world. dress it with a variety of combined methods. The industry must It is an unparalleled platform for networking, knowledge ex- align knowledge about conventional combustion engines with change, and exploring the latest innovations in our ? eld.

advances in digitalization and non-conventional drive systems. As an active member of CIMAC for two decades, I have

A growing challenge is the decreasing number of research and witnessed industry’s evolution ? rsthand. My roles as Chair of development personnel working on combustion engines in Eu- various working groups and a member of the Board have pre- rope. Here, too, we are called upon to introduce young people pared me for my current position as President and a member of to our industry and our or their opportunities. the Digitalization Strategy Group. Together, we can navigate

Despite these challenges, there are numerous opportunities. the challenges and seize the opportunities that lie ahead, ensur-

The applications for ICEs are expanding, particularly in mari- ing a sustainable and innovative future for the ICE industry.

time and rail transport. The combination of ICEs with green

The Author hydrogen and its derivatives also presents opportunities in sta- tionary energy supply. Highlighting the industry’s attractiveness

Boom beyond its emissions is crucial. Emphasizing digital, hybrid, and

Rick Boom is Director of Business new fuel technologies can draw young talent to the ? eld. The in-

Development for Woodward and CIMAC dustry is becoming more diverse, both in terms of professions

President. He has been an active CIMAC and through image campaigns by associations like VDMA. This member for 2 decades.

diversity is essential for fostering innovation and growth. There is also a cultural shift from a purely technical exchange platform to an NGO with consultative status at the International Mari- CIMAC Congress 2025 is scheduled to take play from time Organization (IMO). This change enhances the industry’s May 19-23, 2025 in Zurich, Switzerland. For more information on the event, please visit: https://www.

ability to in? uence global strategies and decisions.

cimac.com/events/cimac-congress/index.html

Since July 2024, our NGO status with the IMO allows us to provide valuable insights and consultations on strategies and 8 Maritime Reporter & Engineering News • April 2025

MR #4 (1-17).indd 8 4/2/2025 9:23:35 AM