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The Francis T. Bowles Medal

THE FRANCIS T. BOWLES MEDAL

Notable Early Career Achievement by a Young Maritime or Ocean Professional
 

    

Nick Hunter

 

    

 

          Nick Hunter  |  Elliott Bay Design Group

 

 

 

Nick Hunter, P.E. is a marine engineer at Elliott Bay Design Group and a registered Professional Engineer specializing in vessel design, retrofit integration, and complex maritime systems. A graduate of the University of Michigan's NAME program, he has since led projects ranging from hybrid ferry design and propulsion repowers to ballast water management system integrations and major cargo handling equipment renovations.  With experience spanning commercial, government, and research projects, he focuses on delivering practical, high‑performance solutions that balance operational demands, regulatory compliance, and lifecycle cost. His work increasingly centers on sustainable maritime design, including hybrid propulsion, alternative fuels, and innovative approaches to emissions reduction. In addition to his professional work, Nick has been an active leader within SNAME since becoming a member in 2010, serving as Great Lakes/Great Rivers Membership Chair, Sections Committee Chair, and Chair of the Marine Technology Editorial Board. 

 

  • About The Francis T. Bowles Medal
  • Bowles Medalists

About The Francis T. Bowles Medal

The Francis T. Bowles Medal is for "Notable Early Career Achievement by a Young Maritime or Ocean Professional". 

It was established by the Executive Committee in 2017 in honor of Francis T. Bowles.

Rear Admiral Francis T. Bowles, the youngest naval officer of the U.S. Navy, to hold the title of Rear Admiral, earned significant respect and acclaim early in his naval and professional career and be considered instrumental in the formation of SNAME. He was also elected one of its first Presidents.

The award title is "The Francis T. Bowles Medal." The medal will be made of gold-plated bronze, one side to show likeness of Francis T. Bowles, the other side to show an inscription of award. To be eligible for the medal, as of March 31st of the year awarded, the nominee must be a Member, concurrent to time of nomination, and also must meet the age limit of 35 as of March 31st of the award year. SNAME volunteer service will be considered as a positive factor, but is not required. Anyone may nominate.

The selection of the nominee for the medal shall be made by the Awards Committee of SNAME. The nomination by the Committee and final award by the Council will require a two-thirds vote of the Committee. Notification of the award will be made prior to the SNAME Maritime Convention (formerly the Annual Meeting) and the medal will be presented with suitable ceremonies at the SNAME Maritime Convention or at such time as the President of SNAME may arrange. The medal may be awarded annually.

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