Rubi Aranda is one of the few women to work for our company in the role of marine engineer. The South American is happy that MAN Energy Solutions gave her the chance to do her dream job.
The Caribbean Sea is rough and stormy, while the Pacific Ocean is calm and peaceful. “You really must be careful as conditions at sea can change rapidly,” says Rubi Aranda. The newly hired naval engineer knows what she is talking about. Since joining our Panama workshop in September 2023, she has participated in several projects on both coasts, sometimes spending up to a week on board a ship. And since dozens of ships pass through the Panama Canal every day, the region is one giant classroom for upcoming naval engineers, says Rubi, who completed her naval engineering courses at the Technological University of Panama five years ago, and studied a Master in Marine Engineering in the Dalian Maritime University, China. We caught up with her after one of her assignments that involved upgrading gas injectors on a G50ME-C9.6-LGIP-HPSCR MAN engine.
I’ve learned a lot about engineering. And because the maritime industry in Panama is so international, I’ve got to know people from all over the world. I really love that.
Receptiveness to other cultures
“Dual fuel engines are relatively new in the market and MAN keeps identifying ways to improve these engines’ performance. Then, we as a service department offer our support on the installation of the updates. It’s challenging and interesting work,” explains Rubi. In addition to the technical side of her work, Rubi enjoys the cultural aspects that come with the maritime world. “I’ve learned a lot about engineering. And because the maritime industry is so international in Panama, I’ve met people from around the world. It is fun and we must be open-minded, because there are so many diverse cultures.”
Good relationship with colleagues
Working conditions can be extremely difficult in the intense tropical heat. Rough seas always present a danger. But Rubi is very thankful she was invited on board after completing her studies. “MAN Panama has welcomed me in such a nice way, and my colleagues have supported me and guided me in the different jobs I have participated in. For this I am deeply grateful. Further, I feel my job has an impact. After we complete an assignment, we can see the crew is grateful that they can continue their travel,” she says. “The crew members are happy to be able to use their engine again, to be able to keep sailing, to be able to complete their assignments around the world. I’m proud, and I feel like my job matters.”
Explore more topics
Service solutions for marine engines and systems
Green, clean, and safe operations are essential to the competitiveness of marine applications today. Just as crucial are the availability, efficiency, and performance of the engines and systems that stand at their core. As a trusted industry partner with a global service network and the service brand for all MAN Energy Solutions products, MAN PrimeServ has a real-world understanding of the wealth of challenges facing both owners and operators of vessels. We have the proven track record of delivering excellence in service solutions and technical expertise to help you get the most out of your exisiting assets and protect your bottom line.
Panama, your strategic stopover
Thanks to our geographic location MAN Energy Solutions Panama, Inc. has become a rapid and efficient place for the development of our customers’ demands. Making us the best choice for technical assistance and provisioning of spare parts in all Central America and South Caribbean.
LinkedIn Star
Rubi was recently the subject of a LinkedIn post that became one of the best performing posts for MAN Energy Solutions to date. With thousands of likes and celebrations, Rubi’s story clearly struck a chord with a larger audience. “I was so proud. I shared it with my family,” says Rubi. “And I hope that other girls and women can be inspired to enter to naval engineering field. Because we can do it, right?”
-
-
Focus on safety
We all want to go home safe and well at the end of the working day. That is the right of employees and MAN Energy Solutions does a great deal to ensure that the risk of accidents in the workplace is minimized.
-
Ensuring people remain in working life
People at risk of incapacity for work need help and guidance. Both are offered by the WIM Teams that operate at all German sites.