Thordon Bearings Inc. has partnered with Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers to establish the Thordon Bearings Graduate Scholarship, a new annual award aimed at supporting postgraduate students developing technologies that reduce the environmental footprint of marine vessels.
The scholarship, funded through a contribution from Thordon founder George A. “Sandy” Thomson, is intended to encourage innovation in ship design that improves air, water, or noise pollution performance. Eligible proposals may address technologies above or below the waterline that contribute to cleaner and more efficient vessel operations.
Applicants will be evaluated on the originality of their concept, the technical strength of the engineering approach, the potential for meaningful environmental improvement, and the practicality and commercial viability of the idea.
“The maritime industry needs bold ideas and determined young engineers,” Thomson said in a statement. “SNAME has long been the home of rigorous technical discourse, and supporting students who are passionate about reducing pollution is one of the most impactful ways we can contribute to the future of naval architecture.”
Thordon Bearings said their seawater-lubricated bearing systems are designed to operate without grease or oil, reducing the risk of lubricants entering oceans, rivers, and other waterways. The company said its bearing and seal technologies are now used in commercial ships, hydropower facilities, and other industrial applications.
Thomson said the scholarship also reflects the company’s long-standing support of SNAME and its role in advancing marine engineering.
“The Society is key for its role as a forum for open and collegial debate and as a guardian of best practice,” he said. “By creating this new scholarship, we hope to encourage and inspire the next generation of innovators in ship design and engineering to develop practical solutions that also protect the marine environment.”
Applications for the 2026–2027 academic year have already closed. The first recipient of the Thordon Bearings Graduate Scholarship is expected to be announced later this year through the SNAME Graduate Scholarships Program.
