Jessica Vleugel
Manager Capital ProjectsI started working for Allseas as an Assistant R&D Engineer during my Offshore Engineering studies at TU Delft. A number of study friends had worked here, so it was a logical step to apply for a student job. Little did I know I would like it so much that I would still be working here seven years later!
Independence and responsibility
The first project I was involved in was a safety case study for our pipelay vessel Solitaire, for which I was able to travel to and work from the Perth Office for a number of weeks. This was a great way to get to know the company and the vessel, since I required input from various departments to complete the study, which was important to Allseas securing approval for pipelay activities in Australian waters. The independence and responsibility asked of me as a student really suited me and I liked the Allseas culture and way of working.
A variety of fields
After graduating, I was offered the position of R&D Engineer in a variety of fields: pipelay equipment development and fabrication, the installation of load testing equipment for heavy lift activities and presenting lectures on marine pipelines at a number of universities. One day, I was working at the office, the next I was travelling to a yard to test our equipment. I really liked the variation of my daily routines. Working with young, enthusiastic and skilled colleagues pushed me to continue learning.
From engineering to project management
After five years with the Innovations Department, I started working on the development of Pioneering Spirit’s Jacket Lift System, initially as Assistant Engineering Manager and as Assistant Project Manager within the department responsible for CAPEX (Capital Expenditures) projects. My current job as Manager Capital Projects focusses less on engineering, but my engineering background is of great value for scopes related to the project’s organisation, technology qualification of the system and management of interfacing designs.
Development of Jacket lift system
Being part of the development of the 20,000 t capacity revolutionary offshore jacket lift system, in a team of 160 persons is a great learning opportunity. I am excited by the prospect of seeing years of planning and design finally coming together, and the system being put to work in the North Sea to remove and install the steel structures that support massive platforms offshore.