Georges Wiel – Project Superintendent
1. Can you tell us about your background and introduce your current role?
I graduated from ICAM, a general engineering school. During my studies, I also completed a semester specializing in naval architecture at the University of Trieste.
After graduating, I spent four years at Airseas, working on projects involving the integration of kite-based wind propulsion systems on merchant vessels. This experience allowed me to contribute to innovative projects aimed at reducing the environmental footprint of the maritime industry.
I then joined LD Armateurs as a Project Superintendent. Today, I oversee a wide range of maritime projects, from the mobilization and demobilization of equipment to vessel obsolescence management, as well as the preparation and supervision of dry dockings and technical shutdowns. The diversity of these projects makes my role particularly engaging.
2. What does your role involve, and what are your main responsibilities?
My role is to provide technical leadership for the projects entrusted to me, from the initial planning phase through to operational execution.
In practice, this includes defining project requirements and technical specifications, carrying out preliminary studies, coordinating the various stakeholders and subcontractors, and supervising the execution of the work. I also monitor shipyard activities to ensure compliance with technical requirements, project timelines, and the highest standards of quality and safety.
3. What do you enjoy most about your job?
What I enjoy most is being able to follow projects from start to finish, from the initial concept through to their successful completion.
I also appreciate the balance between office-based preparation and on-site operations. Seeing a project come to life after months of work is always rewarding and remains a great source of motivation.
4. What are the main challenges you face in your day-to-day work?
The maritime industry is a highly dynamic environment where unexpected situations are part of everyday operations. Operational, technical, and logistical constraints can evolve quickly, requiring a high level of adaptability.
One of the main challenges is finding effective solutions while maintaining the project’s objectives in terms of safety, quality, cost, and schedule.
6. Which achievement or project at LDA are you most proud of?
We recently completed the installation of a new ROV, along with its launch and recovery system, on board the cable-laying vessel TENEO.
This project required several months of preparation, engineering studies, and coordination with numerous stakeholders. Seeing the equipment successfully installed and fully operational on board was extremely rewarding and a great achievement for everyone involved in the project.
7. What are the three key qualities needed to succeed in this role?
The first is attention to detail, which is essential when managing complex technical projects. The second is the ability to understand and analyse a wide range of technical systems. Finally, adaptability is crucial for dealing with unexpected situations and quickly finding effective solutions.
8. What is your motto?
Finish.
A simple motto that reflects my determination to see every project through to completion.
