Ilkka Rytkölä

Ilkka Rytkölä leads the Meyer Turku Shipyard Ecosystem, where he plays a key role in driving collaboration and innovation across the maritime industry towards climate neutrality. His professional journey has been shaped by rich partnerships with ship owners, shipyards, start-ups, suppliers, universities, research institutions, and classification societies. Each collaboration has added a new layer to his expertise, fueling his passion for pushing boundaries in the maritime world.

Over the years, Ilkka has worn many hats—developing bold concepts, steering business growth, leading sales and marketing efforts, and managing everything from R&D projects to full-scale innovation portfolios and complex business/research ecosystems. This multifaceted experience has given him a well-rounded and in-depth understanding of shipping, shipbuilding, and marine engineering.

At Apelago Initiative 2025, Ilkka will join a Seaside Chat focused on ocean tech, bringing his insights into the future of maritime innovation and the role of collaborative ecosystems in shaping sustainable marine solutions.