In a time when there is a significant shortage of experienced marine engineers, we at West Maritime are fortunate to have three retired professionals back at work. Ivar Flusund, Abel Berge, and Frode Hjorthaug collectively bring over 150 years of experience from the maritime industry in Sunnmøre, and they now contribute their invaluable competence to our team in Fosnavåg.
The backdrop is a sharp increase in maritime activities, especially in the construction of new vessels and offshore wind installations. Simultaneously, many shipyards and shipping companies have previously downsized and outsourced expertise, leading to a scarcity of engineers. For us, this means that senior resources now play a crucial role.
The three engineers had originally retired, but seized the opportunity to contribute again when the chance arose. Their stories range from work at shipyards such as Ulstein, Kleven, and Kongsberg, to the design and development of offshore vessels and mechanical solutions. Many of them have had long careers both at sea and on land, and the joy of being back at work is great — especially since the flexibility in working conditions allows them to contribute according to capacity and need.
We are already seeing how this expertise enhances our ability to deliver the services the industry requires. Our seniors oversee and quality assure work before it goes into production, and their experience helps uplift the entire team. Even though the assignment is initially time-limited, we hope to retain them for a longer period.
For us, this is not only about addressing an urgent shortage — but also about bridging generations and ensuring that unique knowledge is passed on.
Source: The article is based on a piece published by Vestlandsnytt (March 2024).
