European Waterborne Technology Platform re-appoints Professor Maria Boile as Coordinator
The General Assembly of the Waterborne Technology Platform re-appointed Professor Maria Boile as Coordinator, a key function in the association’s organisation
The General Assembly of the Waterborne Technology Platform has re-appointed Professor Maria Boile, University of Piraeus and Head of Unit of the Hellenic Institute for Transport, Centre for Research and Technology Hellas, as Coordinator. Professor Boile has served in this role since October 2021 and was re-appointed in 2024. Following the Board’s recommendation that she continues, and as the European Commission enters in a new programme period, the General Assembly approved her renewed mandate for the next two years. The role of the Coordinator lies at the heart of the activities of the Association. Responsibilities include aligning the technical research, development, and innovation priorities of the Waterborne TP, representing the Association, and coordinating its technical matters both internally and externally. In addition, the Coordinator chairs the Alignment Group, composed of around 20 members holding key positions within the organisation.
The Waterborne Technology Platform (TP) is the European research and innovation platform for the waterborne sector, providing policy guidance to the European institutions regarding research, development and innovation, as well as the deployment of these innovations. Furthermore, the Waterborne TP is coordinating the private side of the Partnership on Zero-Emission Waterborne Transport (ZEWT) with the European Commission. Currently representing more than 130 members, from 19 European Member States and four other European Countries, the Waterborne TP has a significant footprint in the European Union.
“I am deeply honoured by the Board’s recommendation and the General Assembly’s decision to continue serving as Coordinator of the European Waterborne Technology Platform”, said Professor Maria Boile. “This is demanding and challenging work, but also deeply rewarding. Over the past years, together with the Alignment Group and with the support of all the members of the Association, the European Commission Services, and the Member States’ representatives, we have accomplished a great deal, shaping strategic directions, fostering innovation, and strengthening the position of the European waterborne sector. As we move into a new programme period for the European Commission, continuity and experience will be vital to sustain this momentum. With the strong support of the high-level experts serving in the Alignment Group, I am confident that we will continue to deliver tangible benefits for the sector. Serving the profession in this capacity is both an honour and a privilege, and a truly meaningful way to contribute to the future of the waterborne sector.”
Jaap Gebraad, Secretary General, Waterborne TP, added: “The Waterborne TP warmly welcomes the re-appointment of Maria Boile, building upon the tremendous work she has accomplished in the past four years. Her profound scientific background, relevant experience and expertise, and above all her commitment will be beneficial for the entire European waterborne sector. Specifically, whereas we are currently developing our Technology Roadmap, which will provide building blocks for Horizon Europe, the proposed European Competitiveness Fund and for the Connecting Europe Facility III, the role of the Coordinator will be critical for the future of the sector. Together with the members of the Alignment Group and our broader membership, we will jointly pave the way towards a competitive, resilient and sustainable waterborne sector.”
WATERBORNE TP has been set up as an industry-oriented Technology Platform to establish a continuous dialogue between all waterborne stakeholders, such as classification societies, shipbuilders, shipowners, maritime equipment manufacturers, infrastructure and service providers, universities or research institutes, and with the EU Institutions, including Member States (www.waterborne.eu). The members of Waterborne TP comprise members as well as associated members from both maritime and inland navigation countries, representing about 19 Member States. In addition, the Associations member of the Waterborne Technology Platform represent the broader waterborne sector throughout the entire EU.
