Lead Presenter:  Orkhan Khalilov | Graduate Research Assistant | Texas Southern University​​​​​

Lead Presenter Biography
Orkhan Khalilov is a maritime operations specialist with 10 years of offshore industry experience, having served as 2nd Officer and Vessel Administrator aboard DP-class offshore support vessels operating in high-risk regions such as the Caspian Sea and West Africa. In these roles, he managed navigation, safety documentation, digital reporting systems, and client compliance for international energy projects.

He is currently pursuing a Master of Science in Transportation Planning and Management at Texas Southern University in Houston. His academic interests focus on maritime workforce transformation, port sustainability, and the integration of emerging technologies—including artificial intelligence—in port and fleet operations. His graduate work bridges practical offshore knowledge with strategic, land-based transport planning.

Mr. Khalilov was selected to present at the Transportation Research Board’s 2025 Marine Transportation System Conference as part of the Student Honor Panel. His presentation, The Invisible Crew, explored how AI is reshaping maritime labor structures and global training standards. He was also awarded 1st Place in the Graduate Research Poster Competition at the 2025 Port of the Future Conference, hosted by the University of Houston and the International Propeller Club, for his work on zero-emission port energy solutions.

He is a Member of The Nautical Institute (MNI). Orkhan is dedicated to advancing safe, technology-forward, and environmentally responsible practices in the global maritime industry through both academic research and policy engagement.

                                                                                                             Co-presenter(s): 


Mehdi Azimi
Texas Southern University