Becoming a Technical Superintendent is rarely a decision made straight from the school desk.

It’s rarely the first career choice that comes to mind. Rather, it’s a role one gradually grows into. The journey often begins with a maritime education in marine engineering or a related technical field, followed by several years spent sailing - often rising through the ranks from Junior Engineer to Chief Engineer. Only after experiencing firsthand the challenges of keeping a vessel operational, safe, and efficient does the move ashore, into the role of Technical Superintendent, come into view and make sense. It’s a career built on knowledge, trust, leadership, and an intimate understanding of ship operations.

Meet Raigo Vatsfeldt, one of Tschudi Ship Management's Technical Superintendents, and follow his journey of becoming one.

The role of a Technical Superintendent holds immense significance within the ship management industry. Over the past 15 years, Raigo Vatsfeldt has exemplified this role, bringing invaluable impact and expertise to Tschudi Ship Management.

Growing up by the sea, Raigo spent his summers alongside his father, a coastal fisherman. These childhood experiences, exploring the sea close by, sparked his fascination and interest in the maritime world.

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The roots of Raigo's mechanical inclination trace back to his grandfather, an engineer in anon-maritime context. Visiting his grandfather's workplace and seeing automated lathe machines in action ignited his curiosity. These experiences, combined with the need to earn money during school breaks, set the stage for his eventual career. His journey formally began at the Estonian Maritime Academy. Initially aspiring to become a navigational officer, Raigo reconsidered his career path due to restrictions against wearing glasses in that role, ultimately leading him to explore opportunities in engineering. Fate deciding engineering for him turned out to be a right move after all.

“Today I have no regrets that I decided to pursue engineering. Really happy the way fate played it out,” says Raigo with a big smile.

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Enrolling at the Maritime Academy was a natural choice for Raigo, given his coastal upbringing and family's connection to the sea. What made his academic journey particularly enjoyable was the strong camaraderie he shared with his classmates, fostering a supportive environment. The university also provided sailing activities, that sparked friendships and a appreciation for teamwork. It was in these collaborative ventures that Raigo learned the importance of working together toward a common goal. “I believe our course was talked about even after we graduated,” jokes Raigo. He and his peers formed a sailing team, participating in competitions during the season and embarking on sailing trips to Finland and Sweden during weekends.

During his fourth year at the university, Raigo undertook a one-year apprenticeship at sea. ”I was one of the six who got the opportunity to sail under the foreign flag,” says Raigo. He enjoyed this time at sea as the crew took care of him and showed him the ropes. The practical, hands-on experience in ship maintenance and engineering offered him invaluable expertise.
Yet, a desire for home and stability eventually called to Raigo, leading him to transition to onshore work. He took on a role as a service engineer with Wärtsilä, enabling him to be close to his family and embrace a more predictable daily routine. As time passed, Raigo's career evolved through various companies and positions. His experience as a seaman, navigating ongoing challenges aboard vessels, following with his role as a service engineer overseeing diesel engine departments, forms a rich and dynamic background supporting his transition to a Technical Superintendent.

 

At first the role as a Technical Superintendent presented fresh challenges for Raigo. Adapting to manage stakeholders and navigate complex regulations while facilitating effective communication between owners, vessels, and management posed substantial challenges. These challenges demanded significant adjustments to ensure seamless coordination and compliance within the maritime environment. It required the development of strong interpersonal skills and a commitment to transparency and honesty.

“I never dreamed of becoming a Technical Superintendent, but sometimes life goes in the best possible direction,” says Raigo.

 

The Superintendent's career is a testament to the importance of adaptability, camaraderie, and a lifelong passion for the maritime industry. As a Superintendent you encounter a lot of different individuals, underscoring the inherent complexities in human interactions.

Raigo’s journey illustrates that the path to success is often shaped by unique experiences and valuable lessons, sometimes staying off from the conventional course. Youcan sense that Raigo has a deep-rooted love for the sea, mechanical curiosity, and the unshakable belief that every challenge can be surmounted. His story is a testament to the idea that, in the maritime industry and beyond, the sea of opportunities is boundless for those with the courage to set sail.