UTC 2025: Subsea Into the Future – What a Week!

The global subsea industry was brought together in Bergen once again for the 31st annual Underwater Technology Conference. With hundreds of participants from across the globe, UTC 2025 confirmed its position as one of the most influential gatherings in the subsea calendar. Never had there been more exhibitors and field trip attendees – and what an electric atmosphere!

Day 0: Field Trip & Ice Breaker

The first day kicked off with a one-of-a-kind field trip, heading toward Northern Lights and TechnipFMC by boat for exclusive site visits. Attendees witnessed groundbreaking developments in carbon capture, storage, and subsea technology up close. And what better way to start the week of networking with an icebreaker? At USF Verftet, an old sardine factory filled with cultural gems and an extraordinary atmosphere, music and conversation flowed through the evening. With food, drinks, and great company, the ice breaker event proved a success once again. And the weather did not disappoint!

Photo: Morten Sæle

Day 1: Networking Between Industry Colleagues

UTC Committee Chair Rune Vesterkjær and Mayor of Bergen Marit Warncke gave us a welcome as the conference kicked off. This was followed by industry leaders delving into forward-thinking perspectives. The panel debate, moderated by Cecilie Sælen, tackled the theme of “Subsea into the future: knowledge and innovation”. In the EXPO area and parallel sessions, energy and conversation were buzzing. The evening finale happened at the grand conference dinner, filled with entertainment, delicious food, networking, and the UTC Award 2025 announcement.

In a rare and well-deserved outcome, two recipients were honored with the award. Congratulations to Reach Subsea VP Bjørg Mathisen Døving, together with Marthe Kristine Sand from Kongsberg Maritime, on the Reach Remote project and to Thomas Øia, Project Manager from TechnipFMC, on the Riserless Coiled Tubing operation!

Photo: Morten Sæle

Day 2: Innovation and Collaboration Enters the Spotlight

The final day of UTC was packed with industry insight, exhibitions and the much-anticipated Young Talents Award. Congratulations to Emil Carlunger for his impressive work in developing cathodic protection simulations! The stage welcomed industry giants, with Aker BP, Equinor, Northern Lights JV and Onesubsea, who all emphasized their roles in a new subsea era. In the EXPO, we could feel the incredible hive of activity, as industry colleagues explored the latest in underwater technology. An exceptional place to be to promote products and seek collaborative efforts.

UTC highlighted the importance of ongoing innovation and teamwork within the subsea sector. Participants departed energized, motivated by the cutting-edge technologies and cooperative spirit on display.

With eyes on the future, the 2027 conference aims to expand on these achievements, providing new opportunities for progress, connection, and the exchange of expertise.