How knowledge makes the difference

When asked to describe the full scope of work that the Technical Department at MB92 Barcelona is involved in, Department Head Francesc Codina paused thoughtfully. With over 17 years of experience at MB92, Francesc has provided technical expertise across a broad spectrum of projects. Summarizing such an expansive role requires careful reflection. 

“As a concept, we provide technical assistance throughout the project lifecycle,” Francesc explains. “This includes the pre-project and production phases, which make up around 75% of our workload, followed by after-sales work. Additionally, there are internal projects that have supported our expansion over the years.” Few departments are as integral to MB92’s operations as the Technical Department. 

A marine engineering graduate with prior experience at Balearia and other marine facilities, Francesc began his career at MB92 in the quotations area. As the company grew, so did the complexity of its clients and projects, leading to the formation of a dedicated Technical team. “The value of a Technical Department lies in our exposure to a variety of yacht types, systems, and scenarios. While the Project Manager coordinates all the moving parts of a project, we focus on the details. With our accumulated knowledge, we can anticipate and prepare for potential challenges.” 

Francesc highlights the significant advantage for clients when choosing a shipyard over a marina for technical work. “Installing new equipment at a marina might seem straightforward, but the real benefit of using a shipyard with a technical team is the comprehensive approach we offer. We take a 360º view and assume responsibility for the project as a whole. A single piece of equipment might necessitate changes to several other systems or impact the structural integrity, and we manage those complexities.” 

Francesc emphasises the department’s role as problem solvers and project supporters. Beyond project work, the department also plays a crucial role in MB92’s evolution. Notable projects include the 4,800-tonne shiplift in Barcelona completed in 2019 and the development of a new facility in the Red Sea. “These projects provide amazing learning opportunities. The Red Sea project, for example, allowed us to expand our knowledge of civil engineering and immerse ourselves in a new culture and way of working.” 

According to Francesc, curiosity and a willingness to learn are essential for success in the Technical Department. “Our industry is constantly evolving, so we must stay updated on systems, technologies, and regulations.” One significant trend is the sustainability transition. “From a refit perspective, sustainability presents interesting challenges, such as integrating new systems like batteries into existing limited spaces. Our role is to develop smart solutions in collaboration with yacht teams and suppliers, leveraging knowledge from other projects to add value.”  

Interest in innovative solutions that boost efficiency and reduce environmental impact is rapidly growing. The Technical Department has played a pivotal role in verifying the solutions offered through MB92’s “Refit for the Future” service, which provides a wide array of options tailored to owners’ specific needs and aspirations. “To prevent bottlenecks from regulatory changes, we must adopt a proactive approach with our clients, but it’s crucial to do so in a way that provides genuine peace of mind,” Francesc explains. 

The service includes a comprehensive option to conduct a holistic review of the yacht and its operational profile, aiming to develop a sustainable, long-term plan. The Technical team is deeply involved in this process. “If we can clearly demonstrate performance results and offer strategies to optimise them, I believe more owners will recognize the benefits and become curious about their yacht’s performance. It’s a detailed and fascinating process, often revealing immediate adjustments in system usage that can lead to significant improvements.” 

The Technical Department serves as the knowledge hub of the company, and its multi-disciplinary team prides itself on a methodical and structured approach to challenges. Francesc advises those considering a career in this area to adopt a similar mindset. “Practical experience onboard is invaluable for understanding how things work. Combine this with studies and a drive to learn, and you’ll be well-prepared to tackle the challenges in our field.” 

Francesc Codina’s journey and insights underscore the pivotal role the Technical Department plays in MB92’s service proposition for clients and its own plans for the future.