Christopher J. Wiernicki

Christopher J. Wiernicki is recognized internationally for his expertise in leading maritime, technology, and energy businesses while building ABS (American Bureau of Shipping) to become the market leader in maritime safety and risk management. Since 2011, he has chaired the board and been the CEO of ABS.

He served on the White House National Infrastructure Advisory Council from 2022 to 2025 and has been serving as an advisor to the Singapore Ministry of Transport and Maritime and Port Authority since 2023. In addition, he is a member of the US Marine Transportation Board and the US National Academy of Engineering. He was also named the Seatrium Visiting Professor at the National University of Singapore in 2023. In December 2024, Wiernicki was ranked number 68 in the Lloyd’s List Top 100 People in Shipping, highlighting the most influential individuals in the shipping industry.

Wiernicki holds a master’s degree in structural engineering from George Washington University, where he was inducted into the GW Engineering Hall of Fame. He also earned a master’s degree in ocean engineering from Massachusetts Institute of Technology and completed Harvard University’s Advanced Management Program. He holds a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Vanderbilt University, where he was inducted to the Academy of Distinguished Alumni and the Board of Visitors for the School of Engineering. Wiernicki also received honorary Doctor of Science degrees from Maine Maritime Academy, Webb Institute and SUNY Maritime College, and an honorary Doctor of Engineering degree from Stevens Institute of Technology.