Shipbuilders Explored the Latest Technologies and Insights at Technical Symposium

Hypertherm Associates recently welcomed shipbuilders for a dynamic exchange on the industry’s toughest challenges and the innovative multi-technology solutions shaping its future. The company’s second annual Shipbuilding Symposium was held at the Hypertherm Associates manufacturing and training facility in Lebanon, New Hampshire, August 18-19. The event was attended by representatives from shipbuilding manufacturers located across North America.

In 2026, the North American shipbuilding industry is seeing renewed investment in the infrastructure and capabilities needed to support the next generation of vessels. In the U.S., the Maritime Administration (MARAD) awarded $35.1 million in Small Shipyard Grants, a 300% increase in program funding over last year. Grantees include 45 shipyards across 24 states and the U.S. Virgin Islands, to support new equipment, facility upgrades, and workforce training.

“With an increased investment, shipbuilders are modernizing their operations, and that creates an opportunity to optimize their cutting operations,” said Aaron Brandt, President and CEO of Hypertherm Associates. “From addressing skilled labor challenges to fabricating a wide range of materials, technologies that cut easier, faster, and more efficiently have a meaningful impact.”

Symposium attendees received an in-depth look into Hypertherm plasma cutting technologies, as well as information on OMAX^® abrasive waterjet systems and BLM GROUP laser machines. The agenda included presentations on automation and robotic integration, cutting demonstrations, and a review of training resources.

Plasma, waterjet and laser cutting have become increasingly attractive to shipbuilders because the technologies can be used to cut a variety of materials, including mild steel, aluminum and stainless steel. In addition, the cutting methods increase efficiency, decrease costs, and improve workplace safety when compared to traditional oxyacetylene and carbon-arc technologies.

In the case of 12 mm mild steel, for example, the Hypertherm plasma Powermax125^® achieves cut speeds five times greater than oxyacetylene cutting without creating noxious fumes or combustible gases. Additionally, Powermax^®, XPR^® and MAXPRO200^® plasma systems are ideal solutions for gouging.

For shipbuilders seeking efficiency and versatility, OMAX abrasive waterjets provide near-net cutting. For instance, the OMAX MAXIEM abrasive waterjet combines high cutting speeds with precision to produce complex parts with minimal taper and reduced need for secondary finishing. With flexibility and productivity in mind, BLM GROUP provides tube and sheet metal machine solutions including tube lasers, 5-axis lasers, sheet lasers, press brakes, tube benders, wire benders, end-formers and cold saws.

Further, Hypertherm Associates provides advanced software and digital controls, intuitive consumable designs, and cobot integration for shipbuilders. Each is a proven workforce enhancer because they allow current operators to upskill and diversify. Plus, advanced technology, especially robotic, is attractive to the next generation of manufacturing professionals.  

“Through ongoing dialogue, we learn what people closest to the renewed investment in shipbuilding value most,” Brandt added. “Whether they are building a new vessel or maintaining an existing one, attendees left this event with a clear understanding that Hypertherm Associates provides a holistic approach to shipbuilding.”