The International BoatBuilders’ Exhibition and Conference announced it has opened its Call for Proposals for the 2027 IBEX Education Conference, inviting marine industry and other professionals to share their expertise behind better boatbuilding. Submissions are due January 4, 2027, for the technical seminar program taking place during IBEX, December 7–9, 2027, at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, Florida.

The 2027 call seeks presentations that turn technical experience into useful professional development for boatbuilders, designers, naval architects, engineers, and technicians at all experience levels. Proposals should explore how to solve industry challenges through practical guidance, troubleshooting, case studies, and improvements to production or service processes. The series also highlights emerging technologies and materials that hold great promise for boatbuilders. In 2027, those will include robotics and AI applications, 3D printing, renewable materials, and advances in battery and onboard electrical systems, among other subjects.

“Knowing what materials and technologies are defining the advances in your boat building and repair projects helps us define the subjects that will be the most useful professional development opportunities for the designers, builders, and technicians at the core of the IBEX community,” said Aaron Porter, Editor of Professional BoatBuilder, The IBEX Technical Journal.

IBEX welcomes proposals in the following subject areas:

• Technical Innovations (including): 3D printing, AI and robotics in manufacturing, and semi-autonomous and autonomous vessels
• Electrification and Propulsion
• Sustainability (including): boat design, regulatory codes, waste reduction and recycling
• Marine Industry leadership, management, and policy
• Marine Electrical and Onboard Systems
• Marine Investigations and Surveying
• Service Yard, Repair and Refit
• Marina and Boatyard Operations
• Construction Methods and Materials: including composites and metal
• Design and Engineering
• Sustainability

Seminars are 90 minutes long and will take place Tuesday through Thursday during the show. Presentations must be specific to boatbuilding and non-commercial, with no product or service promotion. The focus is on equipping attendees with a clear understanding of technical issues and practical insights they can apply directly to their own work. There is a strong preference for speakers who can share hands-on experience, highlight real world applications and examples, and incorporate live demonstrations that bring key concepts to life.

IBEX is also seeking proposals for speakers and topics for its Main Stage. Located directly on the show floor, the IBEX Main Stage hosts a mix of free educational presentations, panel discussions and Tech Talks led by marine industry experts and business leaders. Topics span emerging technologies such as AI, marine innovation, leadership, workforce development and market trends, as well as business challenges such as trade and supply chains. Sessions provide practical insights and fresh perspectives to help marine professionals strengthen their businesses and prepare for the industry’s future.

Developed in partnership with Professional BoatBuilder, The IBEX Technical Journal and multiple marine industry organizations, the IBEX Education Conference offers training in boat construction, design, service, and repair. The broader 2027 education lineup will also include Pre-Conference Sessions on Monday, December 6, followed by the Seminar Series, Free Main Stage Offerings, & Tech Talks on the Main Stage during the three-day show.