Dr Kokarakis a 1979 graduate of National Technical University of Athens, holds PhD (1986) and Master’s degrees in Naval Architecture (1983) and Mechanical Engineering (1984) from the University of Michigan. He worked for over ten years as a consultant undertaking technical problems worldwide. His specialization was in the area of technical investigation of marine accidents. In his capacity as a forensic engineer he participated in the technical investigation of the Exxon Valdez grounding, the Space Shuttle Challenger disaster, the drillship Sea-Crest capsize, the Piper Alpha fire and explosion, the Aleutian Enterprise foundering in Alaska as well as many other accidents of less notoriety. The last twenty-five years he works in Greece, in the area of classification responsible for the smooth technical operation of ships and their safety. He specializes in decarbonization of shipping and innovative technologies enhancing energy efficiency. He is a honorary member of the Society of Naval Architects & Marine Engineers (SNAME) since 1976 and a Fellow of the Society. He served in various capacities, being currently the Chairman of the Greek Section since 2014.