Mohammad M. Islam is a globally renowned Marine Electrical Engineer with over four decades of distinguished experience in the maritime industry. A visionary leader and innovator, he has made significant contributions to the design, development, and implementation of advanced electrical systems for ships and offshore platforms. His expertise spans marine electrical engineering, all-electric ship design, and the development of international standards, making him a respected authority in the field.
Born in Comilla, Bangladesh, Mr. Islam began his academic journey at the Chittagong Merchant Marine Academy, graduating as part of the 4th Batch Engineering Class in 1966. He later earned a Bachelor of Science in Electrical Engineering (BSEE) from the State University of New York at Stony Brook in 1975, where he graduated as valedictorian. During his studies at the State University of New York Maritime College, he received the prestigious Hose McCann, Inc. Award for Excellence in Electrical Engineering, among other accolades, for his outstanding academic achievements.
Mr. Islam’s career is marked by groundbreaking work in marine electrical systems. He spent 30 years in the marine industry, retiring in 2007 as the R&D Manager of Ship System Applied Science at Northrop Grumman Ship Systems. During his tenure, he led the design and development of the U.S. Coast Guard’s Healy Icebreaker electric propulsion system and contributed to the development of the U.S. Navy’s DDG-1000. He has been instrumental in advancing the concept of the “All Electric Ship” and served as the principal investigator for the Ship Smart-System Design (S3D) feasibility study, funded by the Office of Naval Research (ONR).
From 1985 to 1991, Mr. Islam worked for the Saudi Royal Navy as an Engineering Superintendent/Planning Manager, where he supported the naval fleet’s operations and maintenance. Post-retirement, he has continued to influence the industry as a consultant, specializing in all-electric ship design and development, and serving as a subject matter expert.
Mr. Islam’s contributions to the development of international standards are unparalleled. He chaired the central committee for the IEEE-45 ship electrical standard from 1998 to 2015 and played a pivotal role in creating numerous IEEE 45 series standards, including:
- IEEE-1580: Recommended Practice for Marine Cable for Shipboard and Fixed or Floating Facilities.
- IEEE-1713 (now IEC/IEEE 80005 series): Utility Connections in Port.
- IEEE-1662: Guide for the Design and Application of Power Electronics in Electrical Power Systems on Ships.
- IEEE 45 Dot Standards: Recommended Practices for Electrical Installations on Shipboard.
In 2005, he founded the Electric Ship Technology Symposium (ESTS), a platform dedicated to promoting the development of all-electric ship designs and related standards. Currently, he serves as the Chair of the IEEE 45.7 Switchboard Standard Working Group and supports IMarest-MESIG (London) in developing marine electrical engineering educational courses and training materials.
Mr. Islam is also the founder of the Marine Electrical Code Compliance Center LLC, a company dedicated to ensuring that marine electrical systems meet global safety standards. His work has significantly improved safety, efficiency, and compliance within the maritime industry.
Leadership and Legacy
As Chairperson, Mr. Islam brings unparalleled expertise, visionary leadership, and a commitment to innovation and safety. His dedication to mentoring the next generation of engineers and advancing marine electrical engineering has left an indelible mark on the industry. Under his guidance, the organization continues to push the boundaries of engineering excellence, ensuring a safer and more efficient future for the maritime sector.
Awards and Recognitions
- Hose McCann, Inc. Award for Excellence in Electrical Engineering Curriculum – Awarded for excellence in electrical engineering during his studies at the State University of New York Maritime College.
- The Propeller Club, Port of New York Award for Excellence in Marine Engineering Curriculum – Recognized for outstanding performance in the marine engineering curriculum at Maritime College
- The Maritime College Alumni Association Award for Proficiency at Sea – Awarded for exceptional performance and proficiency at sea in the marine engineering field.
- The American Bureau of Shipping Award for Excellence in Nuclear Science – Awarded for outstanding performance in nuclear science-related studies.
- The Lee & Palmer Award for Excellence in Meteorology and Oceanography – Recognized for excellence in meteorology and oceanography during his academic tenure.
- The John J. McMullen Associates Award for Excellence in Naval Architecture Curriculum – Awarded for excellence in naval architecture, a key area in maritime engineering.
