The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL.  What keeps you on your toes?

“As an Inspection Engineer within the ABL Rig Inspection Team, I am utilised as a Team Lead for a variety of Rig Inspection services. This can cover everything from older generation Land Rigs & mobile units all the way through to 7^th Generation Drillships & Semi-Submersibles and everything in-between.

Work-scopes can cover basic assurance inspections to full Rig Acceptance inspections lasting several weeks. No two jobs are the same and I love the diversity of tasking.”

What drew you to our industry and what keeps you passionate about it?

After spending 25+ years in the Royal Navy Submarine Service, latterly as an Electrical Supervisor and Nuclear Plant Supervisor, the synergies with the Oil and Gas Industry attracted me, and pulled me in. Ultimately it boils down to Engineering & Safety in high risk industries & environments. Although it was initially a steep learning curve to transition to Oil & Gas; the teamwork, camaraderie and strong work ethic appealed to me then and still does now.

I love the travelling aspects of the job, and since joining ABL I have worked on projects as far afield as Indonesia, Malaysia, Namibia & Greenland as well as all over Europe. Meeting & working with people from different countries and cultures excites me; my mantra is always to treat everyone with the same respect and humility, no matter who they are.

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

“I’ve literally just returned from a period in Pennsylvania, inspecting a Land Rig in the Marcellus Shale gas play for an important client. The Inspection consisted of a Documentation Review, full Visual Inspections and an Endurance Test of rig systems prior to the client accepting the rig.

An interesting job, with the opportunity to meet and work with some great people.”

We have several upcoming projects in the pipeline, including a Rig Selection survey for a client looking for a Semi-Submersible. This will likely consist of visiting 3 or 4 rigs for a few days each to carry out high level inspections & reviews, before presenting the client with reports and a SWOT analysis, enabling them to make an informed choice of the rig they will take on contract.

From your experience in rig inspections, what are some of the biggest challenges or changes you’re seeing in the industry, and how are you and your team adapting to maintain high standards of safety and reliability

The challenges in the Rig Inspection arena, and in the wider Oil & Gas industry are huge as the industry faces evolving demands in the coming years. Ageing rigs, meeting the required regulatory compliance for the area of operation, cutbacks in maintenance, job insecurity for the workforce are all factors. In my opinion, this is why Rig Inspections are vital for mitigating the risks of Safety, Non-Productive Time, and compliance with the many regulations.

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team in Newcastle? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?

Having carried out hundreds, if not thousands of Rig Inspections between the Team members; it’s great to have this depth of experience available to any of our Engineers. There’s also the immense knowledge & experience of the wider ABL Group. Our team is strewn over the length of the country, from Newcastle to the North of Scotland.

However, we make full use of technology to keep in touch and remain a close-knit team. Some of the team managed to get together in Aberdeen for a celebratory Christmas meal in December, however, as is always the case a few of the team were away on a job at the time.

If you could change one thing about our industry, what would it be and why?

I would change the perception of the Industry. The Oil & Gas industry and people who work in the industry often get an unfair ‘bad press’ from some quarters of Society. I can never see a time when we will not need the Oil & Gas industry and Hydrocarbons. The industry is full of exceptionally talented people who work incredibly hard for their Companies and their families. This should be celebrated, and not vilified.

More about Billy

Position: Inspection Engineer

Office: Newcastle

Hobbies: Food (both cooking & consumption), part-time Restaurant Critic, Swimming, spending time with my 10 year-old granddaughter. 

Favourite Movie: Some Kind of Wonderful – back in 1990, watched it about 20 times in 3 months whilst on Patrol

ABL has extensive rig inspection expertise including, rig selection, reactivation assurance, new-build delivery and preservation inspection. The company’s dedicated rig inspection team consists of multi-disciplined engineers with decades of practical rig inspection experience that helps to provide regulatory compliance and equipment operability assurance to rig owners and operators.

Discover ABL’s Rigs Rundown to read expert news and insights from our global rigs inspection team:

The post Meet Billy McBain, Rig Inspection Engineer, ABL Newcastle appeared first on ABL.

ABL Rig Inspection Blog Series: 1st Edition

Welcome to the ABL Rig Inspections Bulletin!

A regular blog series brought to you by ABL’s global rig inspection team. This series will explore the technical challenges, market trends, and key findings that our teams encounter in the field.

Expect a mix of real-world case studies, detailed findings, and practical insights drawn from our global operations.

Power Management, Dynamic Positioning & Controls Inspection

Situational Context

During a full condition inspection of a 6^th Generation Drillship, part of the work scope required the collaboration between the ABL Dynamic Positioning Team and Rig Inspection Team to conduct a bespoke in-depth survey of the power management, dynamic positioning (DP), and controls systems.

Before mobilisation to the rig, a remote documentation and certification review had been conducted. This highlighted various issues that would need to be followed up on and gave the inspectors an initial insight into the status of the onboard equipment. On mobilisation to the rig, comprehensive visual inspections of all related equipment were carried out, including power generation and distribution, thruster equipment and auxiliaries, dynamic positioning equipment and control systems.

Situational Findings

During the period onboard, the Inspectors identified several critical and major non-conformances that had the potential to lead to unplanned downtime, were associated with safety critical systems or had safety implications.

These included:

• 2 out of the 3 DP System Motion Reference Units (MRU) were overdue for calibration as per Original Equipment Manufacturer (OEM) recommendations
• All 3 gyrocompasses were obsolete, had no historical maintenance records, and OEM performance tests had not been carried out
• Hull valves for the hydroacoustic position referencing (HPR) Systems had their remote operating gear removed, and valve position indicating proximity switches tampered with
• One of the DGNSS position reference systems and its associated HMI screen were found to be powered from different UPSs
• Major maintenance was overdue on 3 of the main engines / turbochargers
• 4 of the thrusters had not been overhauled for over 12 years (>70,000 running hours)
• LV distribution equipment was not being inspected or tested as per OEM recommendations
• Several LV distribution systems and emergency lighting circuits had low insulation faults
• A critical uninterruptible power supply (UPS) had been operating in bypass for an extended period and would therefore not provide battery back-up in an emergency situation
• Defective air conditioning units in switchboard rooms
• Electrical safety equipment overdue for inspection

Discussion

The combined inspection by the ABL DP Team and ABL Rig Inspection Team covered all aspects of power management, generation and distribution, propulsion, dynamic positioning (DP) and control systems. The DP-related non-conformances and several of the maintenance-related non-conformances stated above had not been identified during the 5-yearly or annual DP trials.

Traditionally, during the conduct of DP trials, the focus will be firmly on the DP system on the bridge, with little or no inspections carried out on associated equipment. In addition, due to time constraints, maintenance records are not fully scrutinised on occasion.

This holistic approach enabled the ABL team to identify and highlight critical and major non-conformances which required immediate action or had the potential to cause downtime during operations.   

Contact Us

Contact ABL to find out how the ABL DP & Rig Inspection Teams can assist with assurance of dynamic positioning, power management, generation & distribution and controls systems:

Martin Clark

Rig Inspection Manager

contact me

Barry Devlin

Dynamic Positioning Manager, Europe & West Africa

contact me

The post ABL’s Rig Rundown | April 2025 appeared first on ABL.

The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL . What keeps you on your toes?

“I’m a qualified sailor with years of experience under my belt, and I’m looking to put my skills to good use. I’m pleased to offer my expertise to ABL’s customers and contribute to the industry as a whole.

I’m on the case of investigating maritime accidents from the Great Lakes region to the St. Lawrence estuary and offering my technical assistance to local shipowners.

It’s useful and sometimes essential to be a native French speaker, especially in the province of Quebec, where French is the only official language.”

What drew you to the maritime world and what keeps you passionate about it?

First, travelling and discovering new countries and cultures, then the human relationships. I am passionate about the human dimension in the maritime industry, being a member of a ship’s crew means something for me, and I am always happy to meet my fellow sailors on board the ships on which I work. We are rebuilding this team spirit on board ABL to serve the industry.

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

My current projects include conducting audits for shipyards, which require highly specialised expertise.

I am also working on keeping strong relationships with clients of regional insurers and maritime law attorneys, which I would not have had the opportunity to establish while serving on board ships.

Looking ahead, what trends or opportunities do you see shaping the marine technology industries in Canada?

Canada will probably be the most exciting place in North America for renewable energy and reducing carbon emissions in the coming years.

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team in Montréal? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?

Our team is small but perfectly formed, based in Montreal but working closely with colleagues in Halifax, Toronto, Vancouver and New York.

During a recent team training session in Panama, I met colleagues from Mexico, Brazil, Panama and the USA. Despite our different origins, we find ourselves united by a common maritime language and a strong maritime culture.

If you could change one thing about the maritime industry, what would it be and why?

I would change the way we think about and treat the people who help make the global maritime industry work: the sailors on board the ships, who are often not seen but still play a vital role in society.

Tell us why people should join our ABL Group stand at Maritech 2025?

The event will bring together a variety of professionals from different backgrounds, all working towards the shared goal of enhancing maritime safety at all levels. We would be delighted to welcome you to our event – Plus, we’ll have delicious cookies

More about Julien Vial

Position: Senior Marine Surveyor

Office: Montreal

Hobbies: Squash / Golf / Family activities

Favourite book: Nikos KAVADIAS ‘ Le Quart’ (‘On Watch’)

Don’t miss Julien and the rest of our Canada and Americas team at this year’s Mari-Tech from the 22nd to 24th of April in Montreal. Our experts from both marine and engineering arms – ABL and Longitude – will be available at the stand to discuss how we can support you in navigating the maritime environment, mitigating risks, and delivering your projects safely and sustainably

The post Meet Julien Vial, Senior Marine Surveyor, ABL Canada appeared first on ABL.

The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at Hidromod. What keeps you on your toes?

“I do a bit of everything! First and foremost, I try to ensure that the team has work and that it meets the clients’ needs.

I assess production costs to ensure profitability, develop business opportunities that lead to proposals, prepare proposals to secure new projects, and contribute to the work wherever I’m needed.”

What drew you to our industry and what keeps you passionate about it?

Having completed a PhD in numerical modelling of coastal hydrodynamics, it’s been fascinating to see digitalisation enhance safety and efficiency in maritime industries. AI is the next challenge, set to accelerate this transformation even further!

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

I am currently developing the integration of Metocean nowcast and forecast into decision support for port and maritime operations.

What emerging trends or opportunities do you foresee shaping the ports and harbours sector in Portugal, and how is Hidromod contributing to this evolving landscape?

Portugal’s ports and harbours are embracing digitalisation to enhance efficiency, safety, and sustainability. AquaSafe, Hidromod’s digital twin platform, plays a key role by integrating real-time data, forecasting models, and on-demand tools for further insights.

This helps optimise navigation, manage risks, and improve resilience, supporting smarter and more sustainable port operations.

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?

New challenges come by almost every day. Trying to figure out the intricacies of a large organisation like ABL has its fun side. It’s all new for someone who spent 32 years in a small company.

If you could change one thing about our industry, what would it be and why?

I would enhance the integration of data-driven decision-making in maritime consultancy and expert assessments. While the industry has vast amounts of data, its full potential is often underutilised. A stronger focus on digital tools, real-time modelling, and AI-driven analysis would improve accuracy and efficiency in maritime assessments, ultimately leading to better-informed decisions and more sustainable solutions.

More about José

Position: Founder and Managing Director at Hidromod

Office: Porto Salvo, Oeiras, Portugal

Hobbies: “I enjoy the challenge of managing a large family with my wife, from organising holidays to maintaining our home and garden. With eight grown children and a growing number of grandchildren, coordination is key as reflected in our family motto: Take care of the logistics, and the logistics will take care of you. I also love reading and spending time at sea or by the seaside.”

Favourite book: “My favourite book is usually the one I read most recently. At the moment, it’s the autobiography of Takashi Nagai—a doctor and survivor of the Nagasaki atomic bombing—who had also served in previous Japanese wars with China. In his final years, he dedicated himself to peace and reconciliation, offering a powerful reminder of the resilience needed in the face of war’s devastation.”

Next week, José and our ABL Ports & Harbours team will be at the UKHMA Conference in Edinburgh, showcasing our integrated approach to engineering, risk management, and digital solutions for safer, more efficient, and sustainable port operations with a spotlight on Hidromod’s AquaSafe platform helping ports optimise traffic, enhance resilience to extreme weather, and improve operational efficiency.

Book a meeting with the team at the event:

The post Meet José Chambel Leitão, Founder and Managing Director of Hidromod, ABL Portugal appeared first on ABL.

The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL. What keeps you on your toes?

“My day typically involves marine survey activities, either offshore or desk-based. Offshore cases can be particularly challenging, requiring vessel visits, data collection, analysis, or on-site damage assessments. In contrast, my office work involves preparing reports, handling correspondence, and managing project-related tasks.

I also collaborate fully with our talented teams to ensure that we stay on track and meet our objectives. The dynamic nature of the maritime world, along with the interesting cases that require in-depth analysis, keeps me on my toes every day.”

What drew you to the maritime world and what keeps you passionate about it?

I’ve always been captivated by the marine engineering sector and the ocean—its vastness and its crucial role in global trade. The maritime industry uniquely blends cutting-edge technology, logistics, and international operations. What drives my passion is the continuous innovation within the sector and the essential role it plays in connecting nations and facilitating global trade.

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

Currently, I’m working on a case that involves developing a specific procedure for a vessel’s long-term lay-up. This project enables me to leverage my background experience while also acquiring new and interesting skills in procedure development.

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team in Dubai? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?

The best part of being part of ABL Group is the team spirit. We work hard but also know how to have fun. 

If you could change one thing about the maritime industry, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing about the maritime industry, it would be to enhance the integration of digital technologies for more efficient and streamlined operations. While the industry has made progress in areas like automation and data analysis, there is still much room for improvement in terms of real-time monitoring and decision-making. Embracing these technologies would not only drive innovation but also make the industry more competitive and resilient in the long term.

More about Yuriy

Position: Senior Surveyor

Office: ABL Dubai

Hobbies: Basketball / Diving / Snowboarding / Cars

Favourite Movie: Shutter Island | Favourite Book: Papillon by Henri Charriere | Favourite Song: Queen by Bohemian Rhapsody

Contact our Dubai Office:

The post Meet Yuriy Tereshchenko, Senior Marine Surveyor, ABL Dubai appeared first on ABL.

The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL . What keeps you on your toes?

“As Regional Dynamic Positioning Lead at ABL, my role is always dynamic. One day, I’m conducting DP audits or FMEA studies; the next, I’m on an OVID inspection, offshore witnessing DP trials, meetings with Clients, etc..

Staying ahead of evolving technology and regulations keeps me on my toes, ensuring vessels operate safely and efficiently in complex offshore environments.

Ultimately, my goal is to enhance operational reliability and safety for our clients, whether it’s an oil and gas project or a renewables operation. Every day presents a new challenge, and that’s what makes this job so rewarding.”

What drew you to the maritime world and what keeps you passionate about it?

“I was born in Gijón, a beautiful city in the North of Spain with a deep maritime heritage, the sea has always been part of my life. This connection naturally led me to the maritime world, where technology and offshore operations constantly evolve.

What keeps me passionate is the challenge of ensuring safe and efficient vessel operations, knowing that our work directly impacts the industry and those who depend on it.”

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

Right now, I’m focused on growing our DP assurance services in the region by emphasizing quality, knowledge, experience, and honesty. The biggest challenge—and the most exciting part—is demonstrating to vessel owners and oil majors that thorough and transparent onboard testing is the key to ensuring safety in DP operations. It’s a rewarding effort, as building trust through expertise and integrity is what truly makes a difference in the industry.

Looking ahead, how do you see advancements in Dynamic Positioning contributing to a more sustainable future for the energy and maritime industries

“Advancements in DP technology are playing a key role in reducing fuel consumption and emissions, making offshore operations more energy-efficient. Improved automation, hybrid power integration, along with last generation DP control systems are helping vessels maintain position with greater precision, minimizing environmental impact.

As the industry shifts toward greener energy solutions, DP technology will be essential in supporting offshore wind, floating production, and other sustainable initiatives.”

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team in Dubai? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?

The best part of being in ABL Dubai is the team spirit—we’re a diverse group with a shared passion for the maritime industry. Whether it’s collaborating on challenging projects or enjoying team outings, there’s always a great energy. Each and every single day you can have fun, having a coffee with any of my lovely team, not only from Dubai, but also Abu Dhabi, Doha, Bahrain – KSA teams, which I do collaborate a lot and use to catch up several times during the year. The funniest moment is always the UAE Christmas Party, it always become an unforgettable evening where all together have good fun, really.

If you could change one thing about the maritime industry, what would it be and why?

If I could change one thing about the maritime industry, it would be to restore the respect and recognition that seafarers deserve. They are the backbone of global trade and offshore operations, yet their invaluable contributions are often overlooked. Ensuring better working conditions, fair treatment, and appreciation for their expertise would not only benefit them but also strengthen the entire industry.

More about Juan

Position: GCC Dynamic Positioning Lead / Marine Principal Engineer

Office: Dubai, UAE

Hobbies: Football, water sports, reading a good book.

Favourite Movie: El Secreto de sus ojos || Favourite Book: “Don Quijote” by Miguel de Cervantes

Favourite Song: “Stairway to Heaven” by Led Zeppelin

At ABL, Our Dynamic Positioning (DP) services encompass all aspects of the DP system, from initial design consulting, procedures and documentation, proving trials, audits, incident investigation, life extension studies, maintenance and management, providing value to our clients at every step of the way.

The post Meet Juan Antonio Vieiros Cañal, Dynamic Positioning Lead, ABL Middle East appeared first on ABL.

As we mark International Women’s Day this week, we’re celebrating the remarkable women at ABL Group who are shaping the future of our industry. Among them is Jani Viljoen, Marine Surveyor and a nominee for the Top 100 Women in Shipping. With a career built on hard work and a drive to push boundaries, Jani plays a key role in supporting safe and sustainable maritime operations in Bahrain and across the globe.

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL. What keeps you on your toes?

A day in the Bahrain office is quite diverse. Some days, I’m on-site completing surveys or attending specific jobs, while other days involve desktop work, meetings, and technical administrative tasks. With our small team of 11 in the ABL Bahrain office, everyone covers a range of tasks and assists where needed. This variety ensures that no two days are ever the same, keeping me on my toes and continuously learning.

What drew you to the world of marine surveying and what keeps you passionate about it?

“I have always had a passion for the ocean, marine operations, and understanding how things are fixed and broken. With a background in Mechanical Engineering, marine surveying provided the perfect opportunity to combine my interests and expertise.

The uniqueness of each job and the continuous learning in this field keep me engaged. There are always new scenarios and challenges, making it an ever-evolving and exciting career.”

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

I am currently finishing my Master’s degree in Renewable Engineering, which has been both challenging and exciting. I recently completed my first solo MWS attendance for loading a drilling rig onto a Heavy Lift vessel.

Congratulations on your nomination for the Top 100 Women in Shipping! How does it feel to receive such recognition, and what does it mean to you personally and professionally?

I am incredibly grateful for the recognition and the opportunity to be nominated for such an achievement. The nomination confirms the hard work I’ve put in, especially in a region where females are rarely seen in the maritime industry. Professionally, it sets new goals and brings excitement for the future.

This accomplishment is due to the fantastic examples, motivation, and support from ABL, my family, and mentors. ABL truly exemplifies inclusivity and the drive to nurture the next generation.

Looking ahead, what trends or opportunities do you see shaping the energy and ocean industries in Bahrain?

While the Gulf Arab states are known for their major oil and gas production, we have noticed a shift towards supporting global efforts to achieve net-zero goals. The ABL Bahrain/KSA office is aiming to diversify into a wider range of sectors. ABL in the region is well-positioned to bridge the gap between the oil & gas, marine and renewable industries. This shift is bringing forward new and exciting opportunities.

If you could change one thing about the maritime industry, what would it be and why?

In Saudi Arabia (where most of our operations take place) females face significant limitations offshore as we are not allowed in certain ports and cannot stay offshore overnight. Despite the slow evolution in KSA, there is still a pressing need for change to provide equal opportunities for women in the maritime industry.

What advice would you offer to young women aspiring to build a successful career in the maritime industry?

Be a sponge in every room you enter—experience is the most valuable resource, and knowledge builds confidence. As women in a predominantly male industry, celebrate your unique perspectives and strengths. Use these to innovate and lead with confidence. Your diverse background is an asset that can drive change and progress in the industry.

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team in Seef?

The people. ABL Bahrain is a close-knit team who are not afraid to roll up their sleeves when the work needs to be done. As a South African working abroad, the team makes Bahrain feel like home, especially when the Rugby is playing

More about Jani

Position: Marine Surveyor

Office: ABL Bahrain, Seef

Hobbies: Traveling, Crafting

Favourite song: Don’t look back in anger – Oasis

Get in touch with ABL Bahrain to connect with Jani and the team. Let’s discuss how we can support your marine and energy projects with our expertise:

The post Meet Jani Viljoen, Marine Surveyor, ABL Bahrain appeared first on ABL.

The team at ABL Group shares the passion, vision and values for working in energy and the world’s oceans, de-risking and driving the energy transition. We are driven by the idea that the best work is born from professionalism, diligence… and fun. You know ABL Group, but do you know our team?

Give us a glimpse into your day-to-day life at ABL in Qatar. What keeps you on your toes?

“As the Country Manager, my day-to-day duties involves overseeing the team and our operations in Doha, ensuring that everything runs smoothly.

A big part of my role is business development which is engaging with clients, understanding their needs, and delivering the high standards of service that ABL is known for.”

What drew you to the world of marine surveying and what keeps you passionate about it?

I’ve been in the industry for 18 years, and what initially drew me to marine surveying and keeps me passionate about it is the dynamic and ever-evolving nature of the work. The marine industry presents constant challenges, which makes every day interesting and pushes me to stay sharp.

One area that has always fascinated me is rig moving. No two days are ever the same, especially when working in challenging environments and conditions. I also enjoy the tight-knit nature of the rig-moving industry. It’s a small community where you often cross paths with familiar faces, building strong professional relationships over the years.

Can you tell us about something exciting you are working on right now?

I recently took over the role as Country in the Doha office, and have enjoyed working closely with the team here. Looking at how we, as a team can grow the business in Qatar has been especially interesting to me and understanding the wide range of services the ABL Group, as a whole can assist clients with. We have a great team in Qatar, so it’s a pleasure to work with them, and luckily they share my vision to grow, and adapt.

Looking ahead, what trends or opportunities do you see shaping the energy and ocean industries in Qatar?

“Qatar is quite buoyant at the moment, and there are many areas for growth in the Energy sector especially.

The move towards greener shipping will be  an exciting challenge to get involved in, in the next few years.”

Beyond the work, what’s your favourite part about being part of the ABL Group team in Doha? Any fun team moments you’d like to share?

I particularly enjoyed meeting the Middle East and North Africa and South Asia(MENSAI) management team, at the regional management meeting in Dubai in December. Meeting everyone face to face, made dealing with everyone on a day to day basis, much more interesting, and pleasurable.

If you could change one thing about the maritime industry, what would it be and why?

I wouldn’t really change anything, as it’s a very dynamic and interesting sector to work in. New challenges and opportunities emerge on a daily basis.

 ABL provides comprehensive through-life support for rig moving procedures for jack-up rigs, mobile offshore drilling units (MODUs) and all other types of rigs. Our MWS teams are supported by significant in-house engineering & design capabilities specialising in rig moving operations, including in-house geotechnical engineering support. 

The post Meet Mark Duthie, Country Manager, ABL Qatar appeared first on ABL.

As we celebrate International Day of Women and Girls in Science this February, we shine a spotlight on the remarkable journey of a woman making waves in subsea and offshore engineering. 

From an early fascination with oceans to becoming a respected voice in a traditionally male-dominated field, Sritama Sarkar’s story exemplifies how passion and determination can overcome gender barriers in science. 

“Water always fascinated me, particularly oceans, which are a vast source of resources,” she reflects. “I was always curious to know how such resources could be used in a responsible and sustainable manner.” This curiosity would shape her career path in subsea and offshore engineering. 

Working as the Principal Pipeline Engineer at ABL Group, Sritama splits her time between oil and gas projects whilst increasingly engaging with renewables – a testament to the evolving energy landscape. Her vision extends beyond current technologies: “I would like to see cleaner and sustainable sources of energy in my lifetime,” she shares, highlighting her commitment to environmental stewardship. 

The journey hasn’t been without its challenges. “Working in a male-dominated world, I often found it hard to speak up in meetings where I would be the only female,” she admits. However, she found strength through mentorship from women who had navigated similar challenges before her. 

Her message to aspiring female scientists is clear and powerful. She emphasises that girls excel at problem-solving and managing multiple aspects simultaneously – skills that are invaluable in scientific careers. When addressing common misconceptions, she tackles gender stereotypes head-on: “There is a common misconception that women aren’t as dedicated to their careers as men. However, women in science can be as passionate and dedicated as their male colleagues. Work-life balance is a personal choice and should not be related to gender.” 

For Sritama, the most rewarding aspect of applied science is its real-world impact. Whether developing new technologies, creating analysis tools, or designing sustainable solutions, her work considers not just human needs but planetary wellbeing as a whole. 

To girls contemplating a future in science, she points to the inspiring legacy of women who have made significant contributions to physics, chemistry, biology, and engineering. Their achievements stand as a testament to what’s possible, paving the way for the next generation of female scientists to push boundaries and break new ground. 

Sritama’s journey is just one of many inspiring stories of women making an impact in science and engineering at ABL Group. Throughout the week, we’ll be sharing more experiences from our talented women, highlighting their challenges, achievements, and contributions to the industry.

Follow along on our social media to hear their stories!

The post Breaking Barriers in Subsea Engineering: A Woman’s Journey in Science  appeared first on ABL.