AI in Maritime Workshop: Innovation for Breakbulk and Project Cargo

Marco Poisler

Faculty Member, University of Houston Bauer Human-Centered AI Institute

COO – Global Energy & Capital Projects, UTC Overseas, Inc

Marco Poisler, a key figure in global logistics, serves on UTC's Global Executive Management Team and Board of Directors. Born in Jersey City, he studied economics at Georgetown University and earned a Master's in Transportation from SUNY Maritime. Fluent in Portuguese and Spanish, with working knowledge of Ukrainian, Mr. Poisler has been instrumental in establishing strategic Global Energy & Capital Project offices worldwide.

As an Adjunct Professor at the University of Houston's Cullen Engineering Supply Chain & Logistics Technology Program, Marco teaches "Project Logistics" developed by Margaret Kidd. He is currently pursuing an Executive Doctorate in Business Administration at UH Bauer, focusing on the intersection of AI and logistics under the guidance of Dr. Meng Li, founder of the Human-Centered AI Institute. This cutting-edge research complements his extensive industry experience, bridging theoretical advancements with practical applications in global supply chains.

Mr. Poisler’s community involvement includes serving on the Houston Maritime Education Center board and various trade associations. He co-authored the textbook "Project Logistics: The Universal Transportation Course."

With a strong background in economics, transportation, global logistics, and insights into emerging technologies, Mr. Poisler continues to make significant contributions to UTC Overseas and the industry. His leadership, combined with his commitment to education, innovative research, and community involvement, positions him as a key figure in shaping the future of global transportation and logistics.

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Casimir Morobé

CEO

Toqua

Toqua, founded in 2020 by Casimir Morobé, is a Belgian company based in Ghent that specializes in leveraging artificial intelligence to decarbonize the shipping industry. Their flagship product, Ship Kernels, utilizes advanced AI to create precise ship performance models, enabling shipping companies to optimize fuel consumption and reduce emissions. By integrating these models into existing systems, Toqua enhances route planning, speed optimization, and maintenance scheduling, contributing to significant fuel savings and environmental benefits. 

Casimir Morobé Founder and CEO of Toqua, developed the concept during his master's thesis in CMB Tech, where he explored the application of machine learning to data from vessels for optimization and fuel savings. Recognizing the potential for substantial fuel savings and more efficient fleet management, he established Toqua to accelerate maritime decarbonization. Under his leadership, the company has grown to a team of 13 people and has collaborated with major industry players, including Euronav, Exmar, Odfjell and others to implement AI-driven solutions for reducing emissions. 

For more insights into Toqua's approach and Casimir Morobé's vision, you might find this interview informative:
https://youtube.com/watch?v=Ys63JBBZ1as
 

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Dr. Nico van der Kolk

Founder & Naval Architect

AlbatrosDigital

Nico van der Kolk is the founder of AlbatrosDigital and a senior-level Naval Architect specializing in advanced ship hydrodynamics, wind propulsion, and digital twin technology. He holds a Ph.D. in Ship Hydromechanics from Delft University of Technology, where his research focused on the hydrodynamics of wind propulsion.

Throughout his career, Nico has combined cutting-edge technology with a commitment to sustainable innovation, working in senior roles at Groot Ship Design and Blue Wasp Marine before launching AlbatrosDigital. His current work centers on building digital tools that enhance ship design, performance, and operational efficiency, helping to drive a smarter and more sustainable maritime future.

At AlbatrosDigital, Nico is pioneering the next generation of digital ship models — from initial design stages to real-time monitoring — to improve fuel efficiency, reduce emissions, and optimize vessel operations across the shipping industry.

Albatross Digital helps vessels by providing advanced digital ship models that accurately predict vessel behavior and fuel consumption under real-world sea and weather conditions. These models factor in each ship’s unique characteristics – such as hull shape, engine type, and installed energy-saving devices – to enable smarter operational decisions and improve energy efficiency.


 

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Clark Buffam

Chief Operating Officer

SEA.O.G

Clark Buffam is a seasoned maritime executive spearheading innovation in offshore logistics, renewable energy, and Jones Act vessel operations. As Chief Operating Officer of SEA.O.G, he drives the development of engineered solutions for the blue economy, encompassing heavy transport, marine support, engineering, and Jones Act asset development. His strategic foresight has positioned SEA.O.G as a maritime innovation leader.

Buffam's entrepreneurial spirit is evident in his successful ventures, including Gulf Marine Contractors, a non-asset based 3PL. He also co-founded American Offshore Services, pioneering Jones Act-compliant crew transfer vessels like the "Hybrid Ready" NOS G-Class CTV.

Previously, Buffam developed an offshore logistics division, showcasing his expertise in vessel agency, crew logistics, freight forwarding, customs brokerage, and project logistics. A key achievement includes his collaboration on revolutionizing wind turbine transportation via the U.S. inland waterway system.

His global perspective, gained through operational experience across North America, Europe, Southeast Asia, and the Middle East, enhances his ability to solve complex maritime challenges. A licensed U.S. Customs Broker with a BA in Political Science from Washington State University, Buffam's comprehensive understanding of regulatory and operational aspects fuels his ongoing leadership at SEA.O.G, driving sustainable practices and efficiency in the maritime sector.

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Casper Luchies

Solutions Consultant

Klippa

With a background in business development, operations, and sales, Casper has always been driven by the question: how can technology help businesses work smarter? Now, as a Solutions Consultant at Klippa, he helps logistics organizations automate document-heavy workflows using AI-powered solutions. Casper is especially interested in the practical, scalable ways AI can reduce manual work and create space for growth and innovation.

 

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Margaret A. Kidd

Program Director and Instructional Associate Professor

University of Houston

Margaret Kidd joined University of Houston in 2016, as Instructional Assistant Professor, Supply Chain & Logistics Technology. In 2018 she was promoted to Program Director and in 2022 was promoted to Instructional Associate Professor. Currently she serves on EIC, North & Central America Regional Advisory Board, Houston Maritime Centre Board of Trustees and University of Houston, Community Relation Alliance, Committee Member.

She is frequently in the media including, BBC World News, Fox Morning with Maria, Fox Sunday Night in America with Trey Goudy, NPR, Transport Topics, CNBC, Washington Post and many more, discussing supply chain disruption and solutions. Most recently, Margaret was featured on the cover of World’s Leaders as one of the World’s Outstanding Women in Supply Chain, 2022 and Breakbulk Magazine, Issue 2, 2024.

Margaret has a BBA, MA Cross-Cultural Studies, and has completed 60 doctoral credits in Urban Planning & Environmental Policy with a focus on port-city interface, sustainability, and economic development.

 

 

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