Page 30 - 2024 - Q3 - Minerva in Focus

MINERVA IN FOCUS A look into Minerva’s Newbuildings

Ensuring that the crew is familiar with every system is vital

An interview of Can you please introduce What are your expectations
Nikolaos Bourgkinion, yourself? from a newly built vessel
Chief Engineer My name is Nicolaos Bourgkinion, and I have regarding design and
been a Chief Engineer since 2020. I was born construction?
in Kymi, Euboea, and since the beginning of I expect the vessel to incorporate the latest
my career as an apprentice engineer in 2007, green technologies, with a focus on fuel effi-
I have been a member of the Minerva family. ciency and reduced emissions. I also expect
I am proud of my long-term collaboration robust machinery systems that are easy to
with Minerva, because it has allowed me to maintain, as well as innovative features that
evolve, both as a person and as an engineer. enhance operational efficiency. The design
should also prioritise safety and crew comfort.
What challenges are involved
in the delivery of a newbuilding Do you believe that being part
vessel? of the delivery team of a new
One of the primary challenges is ensuring that vessel could help advance
all systems are operational and meet the nec- your career, and in what
essary performance benchmarks before the respect?
vessel is handed over. Coordination between Being part of the delivery team for a new-
the shipyard, suppliers, and our in-house building vessel not only sharpens my
team can be complex, as it involves various technical knowledge but also enhances
tasks like machinery calibration, automation my project management skills. By working
systems testing, and regulatory compliance closely with designers, shipbuilders, and
checks. Moreover, ensuring that the crew is regulatory bodies, I have deepened my un-
familiar with every system is vital for the safe derstanding of the broader ship construc-
and efficient operation of the vessel. tion process.

Gaining firsthand experience in ship design and
construction deepens my industry knowledge

An interview of and became a Master on oil tanker vessels in adherence to international and local regula-
Capt. Georgios Koutsikos, 2016. I am responsible for ensuring safe and tions while incorporating features that pro-
Master Mariner efficient ship operations, complying with in- tect the crew and environment. Efficiency
ternational maritime regulations, and leading is also essential, with a focus on optimising
a diverse crew through various challenges. fuel consumption and operational perfor-
mance through an aerodynamic hull design,
What challenges are involved energy-efficient engines, and advanced pro-
in the delivery of a newbuilding pulsion systems. Additionally, crew comfort
vessel? should be prioritised to enhance wellbeing
A primary concern is crew readiness and and productivity during long voyages.
training, as proper preparation is essential for
operating new technologies and systems on- Do you believe that being part
board. Familiarisation with the vessel's layout, of the delivery team of a new
equipment, and safety protocols is critical for vessel could help advance your
ensuring safe operations. Additionally, effec- career, and in what respect?
tively navigating technical challenges requires Being part of the delivery team of a new ves-
careful planning, coordination, and communi- sel can foster skill development by improving
cation among all stakeholders involved. both my technical and project management
abilities, making me more versatile. Addition-
Can you please introduce What are your expectations ally, gaining firsthand experience in ship de-
yourself? from a newly built vessel sign and construction deepens my industry
My name is Georgios Koutsikos, and I have regarding design and knowledge. Finally, addressing challenges
served on Minerva Marine ships since 2004. construction? during the delivery process sharpens my
I began my career as an Apprentice Officer Safety and compliance are crucial, requiring problem-solving skills and adaptability.

30 ISSUE 29 / Q3 2024