08/05/2026
Marine navigation, offshore systems, and complex troubleshooting are all part of the job for Javier Seco, one of the marine electronics engineers at CWN Marine.
With a background in electrical engineering and experience spanning offshore energy, cargo vessels, and marine navigation systems, Javier brings a focused, solutions-driven approach to marine electronics.
Q: How did you get started in marine electronics, and how long have you been working in the field?
A: My path into marine electronics has been quite progressive. I initially studied Electrical Engineering, which gave me a solid technical foundation. After graduating, I worked for two years as a Test Engineer on electronic equipment in another industry.
Later, I decided to transition into the marine sector, partly because I was living in Rotterdam, the largest port in Europe, and also because I have always felt a strong connection to the sea, having grown up in a coastal area.
I then joined the offshore energy industry, where I spent a year working as a Service Engineer troubleshooting and maintaining electronic systems. Eventually, I moved fully into the marine navigation and communication sector, where I continue to develop my career.
Q: What types of vessels do you work on most often?
A: I primarily work on cargo vessels and offshore vessels.
Q: What are the most challenging conditions you have worked in at sea or in port?
A: The most challenging aspect is usually the time pressure. Even a small mistake at the wrong moment can have significant financial consequences. Because of this, you need to react quickly and effectively to unexpected situations while maintaining clarity and precision under pressure.
Q: What newer technologies are making the biggest difference onboard vessels today?
A: We are seeing increasingly sophisticated technologies that require less maintenance and onboard intervention, and I believe this will bring a major shift in the industry.
For example, modern radar systems such as those from Simrad no longer rely on magnetrons, which reduces maintenance requirements. Similarly, Fibre Optic gyros, like those from NSR, eliminate the need for annual overhauls.
Q: What part of your job do you enjoy most?
A: What I enjoy most is solving complex technical problems. In particular, troubleshooting issues until finding a solution and integrating different systems so they work seamlessly together. These challenges keep the work engaging and rewarding.
Q: What would surprise people most about working as a marine electronics engineer?
A: What often surprises people is the level of availability the job requires. Problems do not follow schedules, they can happen at any time, day or night, including weekends and holidays.
Thank you, Javier, for your dedication and expertise in helping keep vessels connected, operational, and running safely at sea.
