As part of our 30 Under 30 initiative, we’re celebrating the next generation of leaders shaping the future of the maritime industry. Next up is Cory Dent, New Building Project Engineer at MSC Cruises, and a standout emerging talent helping deliver the next generation of cruise ships through technical expertise, operational insight, and collaborative leadership.

Cory plays a key role in the design, engineering, and delivery of new-build mega cruise ships, supporting projects from initial design reviews through to construction oversight and final delivery. Working closely with Project Directors, international shipyards, consultants, and internal stakeholders, he helps coordinate complex engineering activities, manage project risks, and ensure vessels are delivered safely, efficiently, and to the highest technical standards.

Over the past 12 months, Cory has contributed to the ongoing development of MSC Cruises’ next-generation vessels, supporting critical engineering reviews, risk assessments, and cross-functional collaboration throughout the construction process. His work has strengthened communication between technical teams, improved documentation and reporting, and helped identify potential design coordination issues early, supporting programme delivery and reducing project risk. He has also provided structured reporting and executive-level documentation, ensuring senior leadership has clear visibility of engineering progress and project milestones.

What makes Cory’s contribution particularly valuable is the perspective he brings from both sea and shore. Before joining MSC Cruises, he progressed through several engineering ranks with Disney Cruise Line, gaining extensive operational experience as a Marine Engineer. Combined with his background in Naval Architecture, this allows him to bridge the gap between vessel design and real-world operation, ensuring engineering decisions not only meet technical requirements but also improve long-term reliability, maintainability, and onboard performance.

Transitioning from life at sea into the fast-paced world of new-build project engineering is no small achievement. Cory successfully adapted from hands-on operational responsibility to influencing large-scale vessel design, stakeholder alignment, and strategic project delivery, all while working alongside international shipyards and multidisciplinary teams. His ability to combine technical knowledge with clear communication and practical problem-solving has enabled him to establish himself quickly within one of the industry’s most complex engineering environments.

Cory’s career demonstrates the value of embracing new challenges and continually building on practical experience. His progression before the age of 30 reflects not only technical excellence but also the leadership, adaptability, and forward-thinking approach needed to shape the future of shipbuilding. By combining operational understanding with engineering innovation, he is helping deliver the next generation of cruise ships that will serve the industry for decades to come.

Take a look at our full 30 here.