by InTrieste
Interview: Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Fincantieri
The University of Trieste has awarded an honorary Master’s Degree in Naval Engineering to Pierroberto Folgiero, Chief Executive Officer and General Manager of Fincantieri, one of the world’s largest shipbuilding groups.
In a formal ceremony held at the university, Folgiero was recognized for his leadership in advancing the shipbuilding sector through strategic innovation and technological excellence. The university cited his role in guiding naval construction—both underwater and surface—toward a model characterized by digitalization, sustainability, and integration with emerging technologies such as artificial intelligence.
The official citation praised Folgiero’s “industrial and strategic vision,” noting his contributions to energy transition, systems integration, and research-industry collaboration. His work, the university said, has stimulated “significant innovation” and helped create synergies between academic institutions, research centers, and industrial stakeholders.
University Rector Roberto Di Lenarda opened the ceremony with welcoming remarks, followed by a reading of the motivation by Paolo Gallina, Director of the Department of Engineering and Architecture. Alberto Marinò, Professor of Shipbuilding and Marine Systems, delivered the laudatio, or formal commendation.
Folgiero’s lectio magistralis, or honorary lecture, was titled “Shipyard-Ready Innovation” and focused on translating conceptual innovation into practical applications within the shipbuilding industry.
The honorary degree recognizes Folgiero’s exceptional contributions to the field of naval engineering and his influence on the future direction of the maritime sector through sustainable and forward-looking industrial policies.
