Dr Thomas Ask is Professor of Industrial Design at Penn College, USA and Principal of Ask and Associates. Previous positions include Visiting Professor of Mechanical Engineering (Marine Technology) at the Technical University of Malaysia, Vice President of Engineering at Odin Systems International, and Senior Engineer at Ingersoll Rand. Dr Ask has a BSc in Mechanical Engineering from University of Illinois, an MA in Liberal Studies from Excelsior College, USA, a Doctorate of Professional Studies in Industrial Design from Middlesex University, and a Graduate Management Certificate from Cornell University, USA. He is also a licensed Professional Engineer (USA).

Dr Valerio De Rossi is Marine Manager for an international offshore drilling contractor based in Dubai, UAE. With a career spanning over 28 years in the maritime and offshore oil and gas industry, Valerio De Rossi has held positions such as Ship's Captain, Offshore Installation Manager, Marine Superintendent and Marine Consultant. Dr De Rossi is a licensed Master Mariner, has a MSc in marine operations and safety management and a Doctorate of Professional Studies in Marine Safety Management, both from the Middlesex University in London (UK). He is also a Chartered Marine Technologist (UK) and Member of the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology.