(GLEN COVE, N.Y.) — Dr. John Daidola, a Webb Institute professor of structural engineering, was awarded the David W. Taylor Medal at the 2017 SNAME Maritime Convention in Houston, Texas.
The David W. Taylor Medal, named after the man who built the first experimental towing tank in the United States, recognizes contributions to the development of future maritime systems through the creation of technology based on research. Daidola was selected for this year’s medal for his notable achievements in naval architecture and marine engineering. It is the highest award given by the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers.
“From when I first entered the industry I always looked at this award as the pinnacle of a career,” said Daidola. "To have been fortunate enough to actually receive it can only be considered a dream come true. We have a great industry with boundless opportunity.”
Daidola is a graduate of University of Michigan and Stevens Institute with degrees in naval architecture and marine engineering. He has 80 publications on a variety of subjects of interest to the industry. Daidola is a licensed engineer, currently registered in eight states. He has been employed by Newport News Shipbuilding, the naval architecture and marine engineering firms of M. Rosenblatt & Sons Inc. and successors as well as John J. McMullen Associates, and as an adjunct professor at Stevens Institute and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy.
Daidola is a fellow of SNAME and has been an active member of the organization, including as its first vice president technical.