Interview with Rifqi Adi: Exploring the Maritime Industry and Engineering Passion

In this article, we have the pleasure of introducing Rifqi, one of our talented interns at MBM Consultancy. Rifqi's passion for naval architecture and marine engineering has led him on an exciting journey, and we are thrilled to have him as part of our team. We sat down with Rifqi to discuss his interests, goals, and experiences during his internship with us.

Here's what he shared:

What initially sparked your interest in naval architecture and marine engineering? Please share your journey with us.

I developed a keen interest in shipping and its ability to connect people from various parts of the world. Over time, my passion for naval architecture grew, and I became committed to completing my studies and exploring the engineering aspect within the shipping industry.

Which specific aspects of the internship project are you most excited about, and why?

I'm thrilled about the opportunity to create a design from scratch and apply the knowledge I've gained during my university studies to this project. It's fascinating to see how different the practical application of my learning can be.

"As an international student, I can bring a fresh perspective"

How do you envision your skills and knowledge contributing to the innovation project at MBM?

As an international student, I can bring a fresh perspective to the project, drawing from my experiences in various Naval Architecture programs. I believe this diversity will contribute valuable insights and ideas.

Are there any particular challenges or obstacles you anticipate during your internship, and how do you plan to overcome them?

One challenge for me is adapting to the engineering terminology and overcoming the language barrier, as I primarily learned in German. To overcome this, I aim to improve communication with my colleagues and supervisor, seeking clarification whenever needed.

What do you hope to achieve or learn during your time at MBM? Do you have any specific goals or aspirations?

My primary goal is to gain experience in tackling engineering problems using innovative approaches. I aim to expand my skills and broaden my understanding of the industry.

"His guidance ( M Bambury ) has broadened my understanding of ship operations and influenced my approach to ship design."

Have you had any previous experiences or projects that have prepared you for this internship?

I had the opportunity to work with an Indonesian and German shipyard, which provided me with valuable experience. It gave me insights into working within the engineering department, collaborating with other departments, and understanding different team dynamics.

As you work closely with our chief engineer and managing director, M. Bambury, what insights or lessons do you hope to gain from their expertise?

Mr. Bambury has emphasized the importance of attention to detail and an operational perspective, which are aspects that university education often overlooks. His guidance has broadened my understanding of ship operations and influenced my approach to ship design.

What excites you the most about the naval architecture and marine engineering industry? Are there any emerging trends or technologies that capture your interest?

Initially, I believed the maritime industry had limited room for development, but I now realize that we are in a race against technological advancements and information. The emergence of AI and autonomous shipping opens up opportunities for improvement and evolution. I am particularly interested in offshore and support vessels, following the trend in Europe, especially Germany.

How do you plan to balance teamwork and individual contributions during the internship? Do you have any strategies or approaches you'd like to share?

I value effective communication within the team and find that regular morning and afternoon meetings are conducive to sharing ideas, progress, and gathering input from team members. This ensures a collaborative environment and helps maintain a balance between individual contributions and teamwork.

"The emergence of AI and autonomous shipping opens up opportunities for improvement and evolution."

What advice would you give to other aspiring naval architecture students seeking internships or practical experience?

I would advise them to keep an open perspective and consider internships in various types of companies. Whether in construction or engineering offices, each experience offers unique knowledge and skills that contribute to personal growth and development.

What aspects of the maritime industry or ship design are you most passionate about?

The scale and dimensions of ship design are truly remarkable and set it apart from other engineering fields. I find ship design to be a captivating and special area of focus.

How do you see your role as an intern contributing to the overall success of MBM Consultancy?

I believe I can contribute significantly in the construction department, despite my specialization in design during my university studies. Embracing this new role feels like sailing into uncharted territory, and I am eager to make a meaningful impact on MBM's success.

We are grateful to Rifqi for sharing his insights and experiences during his internship at MBM Consultancy. His enthusiasm and dedication exemplify the spirit of innovation and passion within our team. We wish him continued success in his future endeavors in naval architecture and marine engineering.

If you have any questions or would like to learn more about our internship program, feel free to reach out in the comments below.