Last summer, Ilona Sj&ouml;blom took her first steps into the world of maritime technology as a summer employee at Steerprop. This summer the 23-year-old Environmental Engineering student at the University of Oulu returned to Steerprop to build on the experience she gained in the QHSE team last year.

&quot;The work continued directly from last summer. Between the summers, I worked on my Bachelor&#39;s thesis as an hourly employee, focusing on calculating the carbon footprint of Steerprop&acute;s propulsion unit. This summer, I&rsquo;ve been able to concretely use the calculation model I developed,&quot; she explains.

This year, Ilona&rsquo;s role expanded to focus even more on environmental issues: &ldquo;My job description has changed from last year and is now more focused on environmental issues, especially on calculating the carbon footprint of the organization and products,&rdquo; she says. &quot;These are large, time-consuming projects, and they&#39;ve filled up my desk the most. Of course, I&rsquo;ve also had some familiar tasks from last year, like occupational safety issues, quality documentation, and translation work.&quot;

One of the biggest challenges Ilona encountered is the early stage of carbon footprint calculation in the maritime industry. &quot;Carbon footprint calculation is still in its infancy for some players in the maritime industry, which makes our work more challenging,&quot; Ilona says. &quot;But with new legal regulations, this will soon become mandatory, and I&rsquo;m excited to see how the industry will change.&quot;

Ilona appreciates the opportunity to continue developing her skills, not just in environmental engineering but also in understanding the maritime industry.

<blockquote>
It&rsquo;s been great to deepen my knowledge in this field. Working on the concrete process of calculating the carbon footprint is an interesting continuation of the theoretical work I did for my Bachelor&rsquo;s thesis, even though it came with some challenges,&nbsp;she says.
</blockquote>

&quot;My next goal is to write my Master&rsquo;s thesis, likely on sustainability and environmental issues. It&rsquo;s going to be a key part of my studies in my fifth year, and I&rsquo;m hoping to continue contributing to Steerprop&rsquo;s responsibility agenda,&quot; she continues, already looking ahead.

As for her experience at Steerprop this summer, Ilona reflects on the strong team dynamics. &ldquo;It&rsquo;s been nice to work with familiar faces from last summer and get to know them better this year. We&rsquo;ve also had some great new additions to the team, and the atmosphere has been really good,&quot; she says.

Ilona remains optimistic about the future of the maritime industry. &ldquo;The maritime industry offers huge opportunities for environmental engineering students like me, especially with the growing need for emissions calculations,&rdquo; she explains. &quot;With many companies setting deadlines for carbon neutrality, I&rsquo;m excited to see what&rsquo;s ahead.&quot;

Ilona&rsquo;s summer work has been a valuable continuation of her learning and professional development:

<blockquote>
I&rsquo;ve learned so much working with emissions calculations, even though I started with a blank slate. It&rsquo;s been challenging to create and implement a new process, but I&rsquo;ve gained a lot of useful skills in the very field I want to work in going forward.
</blockquote>

As she prepares for the next chapter in her studies and career, Ilona is thankful for the opportunities Steerprop has provided. &quot;I&rsquo;m grateful for the chance to continue working here while studying, and I look forward to seeing the final carbon footprint reports for both the organization and products. Even though there&rsquo;s still work to be done, we&rsquo;ve made significant progress since last summer,&quot; she concludes.

Steerprop&acute;s Summer Trainee positions for summer 2025 are now open. Read more and apply here&nbsp;<a href="https://steerprop.com/careers/summer25" rel="">https://steerprop.com/careers/summer25</a>

Ilona Sjöblom deepened her knowledge as a Summer Trainee at Steerprop, focusing on sustainability and carbon footprint calculations in the maritime industry.

Ilona's Second Summer at Steerprop – Sustainability in focus

Arttu Sepp&auml;nen, 22 years old, originally from Pori but now living in Helsinki, is pursuing a Master&rsquo;s degree in Industrial Engineering and Management at Aalto University. He&rsquo;s heading into his third year of studies this fall, following an interesting summer as a trainee at Steerprop.

&ldquo;I wasn&rsquo;t familiar with Steerprop before applying, so I did some research online. The positive experiences shared by previous summer workers really stood out to me &mdash; they had been involved in meaningful tasks and genuinely enjoyed working at the company,&rdquo; Arttu explains. Steerprop definitely lived up to his expectations: &rdquo;If you&#39;re looking for versatile, meaningful work, Steerprop provides an excellent environment to start your career and develop your professional skills.&rdquo;

Arttu&rsquo;s previous experience working in production had taught him valuable lessons about the fast-paced environment of production management. But Steerprop provided a new, exciting challenge in the maritime, an industry he had little prior knowledge of. &ldquo;The maritime industry, both in Finland and globally, was something I hadn&rsquo;t really explored. The projects Steerprop is involved in are enormous, both in terms of physical scale and complexity. This became very tangible when I first visited the assembly hall,&rdquo; Arttu recalls.

Arttu&rsquo;s summer at Steerprop was filled with learning opportunities. &ldquo;I set myself a goal to learn something new every week, and Steerprop absolutely delivered on that,&rdquo; he says. From project planning and resource management to risk assessment and communication with stakeholders, Arttu received a comprehensive introduction to the world of project management processes and practices.

<blockquote>
The atmosphere at Steerprop was incredibly welcoming from day one,&rdquo; Arttu says. &ldquo;The orientation was well-structured, and I received thorough training for my role. My supervisor and colleagues were always available to help, making the learning process smooth.
</blockquote>

The positive work environment and team spirit were an important part of Arttu&rsquo;s summer experience. &ldquo;There was a real sense of camaraderie. Everyone valued each other&rsquo;s contributions, and it motivated me to keep improving. The interaction with fellow summer workers also broadened his perspective on the company&rsquo;s operations beyond his own tasks,&rdquo; he says.

Beyond the day-to-day tasks, Arttu was surprised by the sheer length of maritime projects. &ldquo;The lifecycle of these projects is incredibly long, from initiation to the ship&rsquo;s launch. It made sense in hindsight, given the number of stakeholders and the complexity of the projects,&rdquo; he says.

<blockquote>
One of the most memorable moments for Arttu was leading his own project for the first time: &ldquo;I had the opportunity to apply what I&rsquo;d learned in school and present the strategic importance of recruiting STEM experts for Steerprop&rsquo;s future competitiveness to the management team.
</blockquote>

The summer at Steerprop provided Arttu with valuable insights into project management, and while he enjoyed the experience, he realized he wanted to deepen his understanding of company strategy. Steerprop supported his interest, allowing him to transition to strategy-related tasks this autumn, where he could further explore and contribute to strategic initiatives. In addition, Arttu&rsquo;s experience has sparked a newfound interest in organizational well-being and agility. &ldquo;I&rsquo;m curious about how we can create work environments where people don&rsquo;t get burned out or feel unwell. It&rsquo;s something I want to explore further in my studies,&rdquo; he continues.

As for the maritime industry, although it wasn&rsquo;t initially on his radar, the summer opened his eyes to the opportunities it offers. &ldquo;This experience has definitely broadened my horizons, and I&rsquo;m excited to see where my career takes me,&rdquo; he concludes.

<h4 class="article__heading--h4">Steerprop&acute;s Summer Trainee positions are open. Read more <a href="https://steerprop.com/careers/summer25" rel="">here</a>. 
 
Don&rsquo;t hesitate, apply now to join our growing team of likeminded professionals!</h4>

Arttu Seppänen gained valuable hands-on experience and developed a clear career vision during his summer internship at Steerprop.

Gaining hands-on experience and building a career vision

Are you excited about being part of resolving customers&rsquo; challenges? Do you have a technical mindset and desire to develop it? Would you be interested in starting your career in a co-active working community where you can learn from and share your skills with leading experts in their fields?

Then you might be the summer trainee we&rsquo;re looking for!

Steerprop, the designer and manufacturer of azimuth propulsion systems, is seeking summer trainees with a resolve to perform. We are looking for curious and solution-focused students who are eager to learn and develop both on a personal and professional level and who are interested in working within the growing maritime industry.

We offer a variety of interesting and versatile engineering trainee positions in several departments at our headquarters in Rauma. You will work with highly skilled and experienced colleagues and see how the maritime industry can benefit concretely from your work. You will be warmly welcomed into our inspiring and supportive working atmosphere and be given extensive opportunities to learn and develop.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Mechanical Engineering Trainee</h3>

As a trainee in our Mechanical Engineering department, you&rsquo;ll work alongside experienced professionals on the design and development of azimuth propulsion units. Guided by our experts, you&rsquo;ll be assigned specific tasks tailored to your interests and skill level. These may include:

<ul>
	<li>3D modeling of mechanical components</li>
	<li>Finite Element Method (FEM) analysis</li>
	<li>Hydraulics systems design and analysis</li>
	<li>Creating and refining technical drawings</li>
</ul>

This role is ideal for students pursuing a degree in mechanical engineering or a related field. Advanced coursework or experience in structural analysis and mechanical engineering is considered a plus.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Electrical Engineering Trainee</h3>

As an Electrical Engineering Trainee, you will collaborate with our skilled professionals both in the office and on the Assembly Shop. This hands-on position offers an excellent opportunity to learn on the job, taking on a diverse range of tasks, including:

<ul>
	<li>
	Control system development
	</li>
	<li>
	Providing technical support
	</li>
	<li>
	Designing electric drive systems
	</li>
	<li>
	Electrical design using Eplan and CADS Planner
	</li>
	<li>
	Supervising electrical assembly processes
	</li>
</ul>

This position is ideal for individuals currently studying, or who have recently completed studies in electrical and automation engineering, or a related field. Advanced knowledge in electrical or automation engineering is a plus.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Automation Engineering Trainee</h3>

As an Automation Engineering Trainee, you will be involved in a variety of tasks across key areas, including:

<ul>
	<li>
	Automation software product development
	</li>
	<li>
	Developing and implementing software version management systems
	</li>
	<li>
	Testing control system software
	</li>
</ul>

You will also contribute to the functional testing of our propulsion units. Supported by our experienced professionals, this role provides ample opportunities to enhance your expertise and acquire new skills.

This position is ideal for those who are students or have recently completed, studies in electrical and automation engineering, or a related field. Advanced studies in automation technology are considered a valuable asset.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Project Engineering Trainee</h3>

As a Project Engineering Trainee, you will collaborate closely with our sales and project management teams, developing key project management skills while gaining valuable experience in international maritime sales and project execution. You will assist with project management and sales support tasks, with the opportunity to shape your role based on your interests and career goals.

This position is perfect for individuals passionate about project management, and is ideal for students or recent graduates in technology, business, or a related field.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Sales Engineering Trainee</h3>

As a Sales Engineering Trainee, you will work closely with our international sales team on a variety of maritime sales projects, enhancing your technical knowledge and commercial expertise. You will be assigned specific tasks tailored to your interests, which may include:

<ul>
	<li>
	Providing back-office support to Sales Managers &amp; Sales Agents around the world
	</li>
	<li>
	Preparing commercial offers and technical specifications
	</li>
	<li>
	Developing analysis tools to support sales efforts
	</li>
	<li>
	Creating and refining sales materials
	</li>
</ul>

This position is suitable for a student in a commercial or technical field with good problem-solving skills a co-operative attitude.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Service Engineering Trainee</h3>

As a Service Engineering Trainee, you will collaborate closely with our spare parts sales and service teams, contributing to various aspects of service operations. Your role will include supporting service task coordination, assisting in spare parts sales and deliveries, and, if possible, participating in hands-on service-related mechanical tasks. With guidance from our seasoned professionals, you will have ample opportunities to deepen your expertise and develop new skills.

This position is ideal for someone who is passionate about supporting both customers and team members, enjoys problem-solving, and has an interest in mechanical engineering. We are looking for a student or recent graduate in maritime or mechanical engineering.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Mechanical and&nbsp;Electrical Assembly Trainee</h3>

As a Mechanical or Electrical Assembly Trainee, you will actively participate in daily assembly work at our Assembly Shop in Rauma, gaining hands-on experience in both mechanical and electrical assembly tasks. This role provides an excellent opportunity to learn on the job, engage in a variety of interesting tasks, and gain valuable experience to complement your studies.

These positions are ideal for vocational or mechanical/electrical engineering students or recent graduates who are enthusiastic about putting their skills into practice in a real-world environment.

&nbsp;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Production Supervisor Trainee</h3>

As a Production Supervisor Trainee, you will participate in daily production operations at our Rauma facility, working closely with our skilled Production Supervisors to keep our Assembly Shop organized, on schedule, and compliant with quality and safety standards. During the summer season, you will also provide support to our storekeeping team, gaining insight into inventory and logistics management.

This position is ideal for students or recent graduates in mechanical engineering or industrial management who are eager to apply their skills in a hands-on, real-world environment.

&nbsp;

For all the positions good spoken and written English is also required.

Please note - if you are chosen for any of our summer trainee positions and you&rsquo;re an engineering or technology MSc student, you also have the possibility to apply for the housing and transport benefits offered by the City of Rauma through the Tech Summer Trainee Campaign. Read more here:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.tippoint.fi/en/companies/rauman-kaupunki" rel="noopener" target="_blank">City of Rauma/ Tech Summer Trainee Campaign 2025 - Tippoint</a>

Don&rsquo;t hesitate, apply now to join our growing team of likeminded professionals!

Send your application latest on February 28th&nbsp;2025&nbsp;to <a href="mailto:careers@steerprop.com">careers@steerprop.com</a>.

Are you about to start working on your thesis? Feel free to contact us at <a href="mailto:careers@steerprop.com">careers@steerprop.com</a> to discuss possible thesis topics and to apply for a thesis collaboration or internship!

&nbsp;

Steerprop offers a variety of interesting and versatile engineering summer trainee positions in several departments. You will work with highly skilled and experienced colleagues and see how the maritime industry can benefit concretely from your work. 

Steerprop´s Summer Trainee Positions are Open!

Steerprop offers a variety of interesting and versatile engineering trainee positions in several departments. You will work with highly skilled and experienced colleagues and see how the maritime industry can benefit concretely from your work. You will be warmly welcomed into our inspiring and supportive working atmosphere and be given extensive opportunities to learn and develop.

Steerprop&#39;s fit-for-purpose propulsion system will help to maintain environmental performance and provide the manoeuvrability needed for operations in and around deeper offshore power projects.

Set to be delivered in 2026, the Fleeming Jenkin will be the world&#39;s largest Cable-Laying Vessel (CLV) to date. By optimizing the propulsion system to be in line with the ship&#39;s operating profile, maritime environmental regulations, and customer requirements, Steerprop has done its part to ensure that the new CLV will also be the world&#39;s cleanest.

The Fleeming Jenkin is being built by China Merchants Heavy Industry Haimen (CMHI) and will be owned by Jan De Nul Group. The main propulsion for the Fleeming Jenkin will come from four azimuth thrusters. Manoeuvrability will be enhanced by three tunnel thrusters and two retractable. An additional full main thruster and extensive spares package will also be supplied as part of the contract. In addition to the Fleeming Jenkin, Jan De Nul is also building a second identical vessel with three carousels and a cable-carrying capacity of 28,000 tonnes.

The move reflects a confidence in the technology and design competence of Steerprop, according to Juho Rekola, Director, Sales and Project Management, &quot;This is a milestone project for us, and not just because of the technology; we showed that we were able to adapt to various end-customer requirements and be flexible in terms of CMHI&#39;s needs in order to ensure that the building and commissioning phases occur seamlessly. It demonstrates our ability to address the requirements of even the most demanding of applications from within our extended product portfolio.&quot;

&quot;This is our first time working with Steerprop. We hope that this cooperation will be smooth and demonstrate its expertise, and we are looking forward to doing more together in the future,&quot; says Tao Chen, CMHI (Jiangsu) Deputy GM.

<blockquote>
Fleeming Jenkin bundles all the cable installation expertise we&#39;ve gained over the past decade. This vessel and the technologies on board are designed by our in-house specialists. We are happy to add to that the expertise of Steerprop in delivering a comprehensive propulsion system for our cable-laying vessel under construction, resulting in high-maneuverable and performant vessel&nbsp;for challenging offshore conditions. We look forward to working together on this project,&quot; says Jan Van de Velde, Director of Newbuilds at Jan De Nul.
</blockquote>

Juho Rekola adds that the Fleeming Jenkin demonstrates how Steerprop is committed to fully understanding customers&#39; needs, requirements and expectations. &quot;Ship-owners shouldn&#39;t have to compromize because they&#39;ve been forced to choose a solution straight from a manufacturer&#39;s catalogue. Instead, they should set challenges and expect their suppliers to rise to them. The Fleeming Jenkin is a fine example of how this philosophy can help to shape reality.&quot;

Steerprop's fit-for-purpose propulsion system will help to maintain environmental performance and provide the manoeuvrability needed for operations in and around deeper offshore power projects.

Steerprop Selected to Provide Comprehensive Propulsion Systems for World's Largest Cable-Laying Vessel

Steerprop, the leading designer and manufacturer of propulsion systems, is pleased to announce the appointment of Teemu M&auml;kinen (M.Sc. Engineering) as Production Director and member of the Steerprop Management Team, effective August 1, 2024. This appointment will further strengthen the company&rsquo;s strategic ambitions to enhance production capabilities, meet increasing volumes, adhere to the latest manufacturing requirements, and respond the growing market demand.

Teemu M&auml;kinen has an extensive background with a proven track record in the maritime industry. He has built a robust career with extensive expertise in production management, particularly in steel production and large-scale project execution.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="Steerprop is pleased to announce the appointment of Teemu Mäkinen Production Director and member of the Steerprop Management Team, effective August 1, 2024." src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/teemu-m-kinen_official_web5-7ad4cd4c-d601-4cab-a291-0e4e509e85f0_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>
</figure>

He joins Steerprop from Rauma Marine Constructions (RMC), where he dedicated the past nine years in various key roles. At RMC, M&auml;kinen held positions as Production Manager, Project Manager, and Procurement Manager, among other responsibilities in service and sales. His extensive experience equips him with the skills and knowledge to make a substantial contribution to Steerprop&#39;s global operations.

&ldquo;I am thrilled to join Steerprop and take on this new challenge,&rdquo; said M&auml;kinen. &ldquo;This opportunity came at the perfect time, allowing me to bring my experience in production management to a company renowned for its high-quality products. I look forward to contributing to Steerprop&rsquo;s continued success and helping drive the organization forward with new and exciting projects.&rdquo;

<blockquote>
Teemu M&auml;kinen&#39;s extensive background and deep understanding of the maritime industry make him a valuable addition to our team,&rdquo; says Riku-Pekka H&auml;gg, CEO at Steerprop. &ldquo;His expertise in production and project management will be instrumental as we continuously strive for business growth while maintaining the high standards our clients expect.
</blockquote>

Steerprop is known for its customer-centricity and high-quality products, and M&auml;kinen&rsquo;s appointment is expected to further strengthen the company&rsquo;s position in the industry. His role will focus on driving development initiatives, maintaining product quality, and steering the industrialization of the company&rsquo;s manufacturing processes.

Steerprop is pleased to announce the appointment of Teemu Mäkinen as Production Director effective August 1, 2024. 

Steerprop appoints experienced maritime professional as new Production Director

Steerprop is pleased to announce the appointment of Teemu Mäkinen as Production Director effective August 1, 2024. This appointment will further strengthen the company’s strategic ambitions to enhance production capabilities, meet increasing volumes, adhere to the latest manufacturing requirements, and respond the growing market demand.

Steerprop has been chosen to provide a comprehensive Polar Class 4 (PC 4) propulsion package for the Canadian Coast Guard&#39;s Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs) renewal program.

The contract entails the supply of propulsion packages for the initial six MPVs, integral to Canada&#39;s National Shipbuilding Strategy (NSS). Steerprop&#39;s solution comprises two tunnel thrusters for auxiliary propulsion and two Contra-Rotating Propulsors (CRP) for main propulsion, meticulously engineered to meet the stringent operational demands of the vessels in challenging Arctic waters.

Recognized for their expertise in ice-strengthened Arctic propulsion systems, Steerprop&#39;s solution ensures exceptional operational reliability, maneuverability, and efficiency, essential for the diverse missions undertaken by the Canadian Coast Guard in the Eastern and Western Seaboards and the western and lower Arctic.

The CRP units not only serve propulsion needs but also facilitate efficient ice management, crucial for maintaining safe navigation channels and responding to emergencies in icy conditions. With a design that optimizes efficiency even at lower power levels, Steerprop&#39;s solution minimizes energy consumption while maximizing operational versatility and reliability.

Juho Rekola, Director of Sales and Project Management at Steerprop, stated, &quot;Our commitment to delivering the best possible propulsion systems and engineering support for our customers is at the heart of everything we do at Steerprop. This project exemplifies our resolve to support our customer in enhancing vessel performance and environmental friendliness without compromising on stringent requirements for operational availability.&rdquo;

He continued, &quot;This contract not only guarantees significant growth and a stable base load&nbsp;for an extended period but also plays a vital role in shaping the future of Steerprop. Establishing a permanent presence in Canada, this project further strengthens our expansion efforts across North America.&quot;

<blockquote>
Seaspan Shipyards is pleased to award this mission-critical propulsion system contract which will help enable the Canadian Coast Guard to safely and efficiently operate the MPVs across the wide range of environmental conditions encountered in Canadian waters.&nbsp;said David Belton, Senior Program Director, Multi-Purpose Vessels at Seaspan Shipyards.
</blockquote>

Steerprop has been chosen to provide a comprehensive Polar Class 4 (PC 4) propulsion package for the Canadian Coast Guard's Multi-Purpose Vessels (MPVs) renewal program. 

Steerprop Selected to Supply Main Propulsion and Tunnel Thrusters for Canadian Coast Guard Multi-Purpose Vessels Program

While negotiations about a propulsion retrofit for an ASD tugboat are underway, a fit-for-purpose idea comes to light: what if the propulsion solution could accommodate seasonal change &ndash; namely, eliminating the ever-present hassle provided by ice during winter operations?&nbsp;

Artemis, one of the longest serving Azimuth Stern Drive (ASD) tugboats in the Alfons H&aring;kans fleet, needed a propulsion boost. Tuomas Raumanen, Technical Manager for Turku-based Alfons H&aring;kans, recalls that the company was thinking about various alternatives in the autumn of 2021. The propulsion unit was 40 years old and nearing the end of its life cycle.

&ldquo;We knew that a major overhaul would be costly and take a long time to perform. The alternative was getting a new propulsion unit as a retrofit,&rdquo; Raumanen explains.

&ldquo;We were also interested to upgrade thrusters to new model with a slipping clutch. Original propulsion units did not have a slipping clutch function and manoeuvring of the tug was sometimes demanding, especially in small harbor basins,&rdquo; he adds.

Alfons H&aring;kans, one of the leading towage and salvage companies in the Baltic Sea, asked around for offers. The company soon got into talks with Steerprop, a leading designer and manufacturer of propulsion systems for the most demanding applications and toughest conditions, who had just collaborated with the company regarding the very same ship.

&ldquo;Steerprop had just modernized and upgraded the control system on Artemis and we had good relationship,&rdquo; explains Raumanen.

&ldquo;As a consequence, we decided to make a deal for the new propulsion unit retrofit with them.&rdquo;

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Dealing with ice </h3>

So far, everything was proceeding as it regularly would. At this time, however, Raumanen started thinking: could the Steerprop delivery scope be modified somehow to take care of a persistent problem that tugboats keep facing in the winter?

&ldquo;The propulsion units feature nozzles that get jammed up with crushed ice during winter,&rdquo; Raumanen explains, adding that, for example, most port areas are plagued with just such ice.

<blockquote>
The ice will get stuck in the nozzles and propulsion performance will drop dramatically. Furthermore, emptying the ice from the nozzles is a time-consuming job that is not exactly easy to pull off.
</blockquote>

Raumanen challenged the Steerprop design team to come up with a solution: instead of welded-in nozzles, would a more &ldquo;mobile&rdquo; system work? That way you could take away the nozzles in the wintertime when ice becomes an issue &ndash; and simply put them on again after winter.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Rising to the challenge</h3>

Juho Rekola, Director, Sales and Project Management, from Steerprop says that the design team immediately saw the value in the idea. &ldquo;Nozzles filling with crushed ice is a potentially a very serious safety issue, not to mention the drop in performance level. We were eager to tackle this challenge,&rdquo; Rekola says.

A fit-for-purpose concept begun to take shape soon. Instead of welding the nozzles in place, one could bolt them in &ndash; and remove them at your leisure. The trick, however, was that you would have to do it under water.

&ldquo;I contacted local DG Diving Group who have lots of experience from demanding projects &ndash; and they were confident that they could get it done,&rdquo; says Tuomas Raumanen.

Next up, the Steerprop professionals came in to install the propulsion unit, but the question remained: will the underwater operation bring the desired end result? The moment of truth finally arrived at the end of February, 2024, as it was time to remove the nozzles &ndash; as well as replace the &ldquo;summertime propeller&rdquo; with a &ldquo;winter propeller&rdquo; &ndash; in the freezing-cold water. Steerprop&rsquo;s most experienced technician stood by on the pier, ready to offer assistance.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/kopio-tiedostosta-p1014826-b4a9ec3a-a4b0-482f-9a45-e4cb0e6fe802_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Job well done! The concept with dismountable nozzles means that Artemis can be used also in the hardest ice conditions during wintertime.</figcaption>
</figure>

The switch would take time even under best of circumstances. &ldquo;If you do this same procedure on dry dock, it&rsquo;ll take 4-5 days to perform. We couldn&rsquo;t know in advance, how fast things would happen under water,&rdquo; Raumanen says. However, with a dry dock certain extra expenses are known: for example, reserving and getting the vessel to available drydock takes time and runs up the cost.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Beneath the surface</h3>

Everybody was most pleasantly surprised when the diving team pulled off the job in four days. &ldquo;The Steerprop technician remarked that most dry docks couldn&rsquo;t move that fast,&rdquo; grins Raumanen.

&ldquo;And think of the conditions: for example, managing 10 mm nuts with your bare hands in Baltic Sea in February is not for everybody,&rdquo; Raumanen gives credit to the diving team which numbered 2-3 divers, depending on the work phase.

Juho Rekola agrees: the divers really did the &ldquo;heavy lifting&rdquo; here, making it possible to pursue a wild idea to its fruition. &ldquo;The collaboration in this project was outstanding throughout,&rdquo; he adds.

All that hard work paid off. Raumanen reports that the feedback from Artemis, back upon the waves in March, has been only positive.

<blockquote>
It was great to see how well everything has been working, and the operability of the propulsion unit remains solid. This concept with dismountable nozzles means that we can use Artemis also in the hardest ice conditions during wintertime which was not possible with original thruster units.
</blockquote>

The tugboat will return to &lsquo;summer mode&rsquo; in April, as the nozzles are installed back in by divers.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Solve any problem</h3>

Looking back at the entire project, Raumanen says that Steerprop &ndash; once again &ndash; gave an impressive showing with its flexibility and ability to think outside the box.

<blockquote>
Furthermore, when we ask, can this be done, the answer is never &lsquo;no&rsquo;. Instead, they say &lsquo;let us get back to you&rsquo; and figure out the best way forward,&nbsp;says Raumanen.
</blockquote>

The &lsquo;nozzle on, nozzle off&rsquo; concept is now included in the retrofit scope of another Alfons H&aring;kans vessel: tugboat Apollon will be fitted the same way, reveals Raumanen.

&ldquo;We&rsquo;re happy to expand on a winning concept,&rdquo; he adds.

While negotiations about a propulsion retrofit for an ASD tugboat are underway, a fit-for-purpose idea comes to light: what if the propulsion solution could accommodate seasonal change – namely, eliminating the ever-present hassle provided by ice during winter operations? Steerprop and Alfons Håkans combined forces in pursuit of a truly out-of-the-box propulsion solution.     

Tugboat Artemis tackles ice woes with fit-for-purpose innovation 

In the realm of seafaring vessels, noise generated by propulsor systems manifests in two distinct forms: onboard noise, perceptible within the confines of the vessel, and underwater radiated noise (URN), which resonates beneath the surface. While historical attention has centered on onboard noise, URN has emerged as a growing concern in recent decades. At Steerprop, we&#39;ve embraced a proactive ethos, adopting a &quot;design for low noise&quot; strategy that integrates noise reduction considerations across all stages of design and manufacturing. This approach not only benefits onboard comfort but also mitigates the impact on URN.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">The Impact of URN</h3>

While onboard noise may disrupt passengers or crew members, URN poses a more significant threat to fragile underwater ecosystems. Sensitive regions like the Arctic and Antarctic are particularly susceptible to URN disturbances, potentially impacting marine life and habitats. Recognizing this, entities like the Vancouver Fraser Port Authority have instituted incentives for ships meeting URN criteria, mindful of the well-being of local whale and mammal populations. Worldwide, fishing vessels and research ships alike are battling with URN&#39;s effects, from altering fish behavior to compromising underwater signal measurements. Classification societies have responded by introducing &quot;quiet class&quot; notations, initially addressing onboard noise but increasingly encompassing URN considerations. While URN classification remains relatively limited, industry trends suggest a growing emphasis on incorporating URN targets into new vessel designs, possibly culminating in future regulatory mandates.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">The Quest for Silence</h3>

To meet the demand for vessels with reduced URN levels, designers and shipyards must carefully address all major noise sources. A tailored approach, customized to each vessel&#39;s design and operational requirements, is paramount. Propulsion systems represent a focal point, with efforts concentrated on minimizing noise from propellers and drive trains. Propeller-induced noise stems from water cavitation, while drive trains contribute mechanical and electrical noise. Steerprop&#39;s contra-rotating propulsion (CRP) system tackles both fronts by employing dual propellers with lower loading to mitigate cavitation, alongside LM units that integrate a permanent magnet motor to reduce drive train noise. Moreover, advancements in propulsion technology, such as the CRP, not only enhance efficiency but also inherently curb URN emissions by minimizing cavitation.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/noise2024-c62fada9-0c30-4453-8941-e6aca1d5aa05_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Example case of distribution of sound pressure level near Steerprop&rsquo;s contra-rotating propulsion (CRP) unit and on its structure interface.</figcaption>
</figure>

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Advancing Noise Control</h3>

Beyond product development, collaborative research endeavors are instrumental in deepening our understanding of noise dynamics and mitigation strategies. Through partnerships with organizations like Finland-based ATA Gears and Luode Oy, we&#39;ve delved into noise excitation mechanisms and conducted comprehensive noise measurements on various vessels. Despite progress, challenges persist, magnified by the scarcity of publicly available URN data. However, our commitment to a holistic noise control approach remains steadfast, fueled by ongoing research and an unwavering dedication to meeting the evolving needs of our clients.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Enhancing Tunnel Thrusters for Low URN Levels</h3>

In our pursuit of low URN levels, tunnel thrusters represent another vital consideration, not only for their contribution to URN but also for their impact on onboard noise during maneuvering. Acknowledging the hydrodynamic complexities inherent in tunnel thrusters, we&#39;re actively exploring optimization strategies, including fine-tuning propeller geometry and implementing innovative solutions to minimize noise emissions. Our objective is clear; to ensure tunnel thrusters operate with the utmost silence without compromising performance.

In the world of seafaring, noise from propulsor systems comes in two types: onboard noise felt within the vessel, and underwater radiated noise (URN) below the surface. Steerprop takes a proactive approach by prioritizing noise reduction in design and manufacturing.

Focusing on minimizing underwater radiated noise

In the world of seafaring, noise from propulsor systems comes in two types: onboard noise felt within the vessel, and underwater radiated noise (URN) below the surface. While past focus has been on onboard noise, URN has become a more significant concern. Steerprop takes a proactive approach by prioritizing noise reduction in design and manufacturing, benefiting onboard comfort and minimizing URN impact.

This past summer Steerprop had the opportunity to get to know Ilona Sj&ouml;blom and Markus Taulu, two out of many Master&rsquo;s degree students that worked with us in various summer trainee positions.

Ilona, a 22-year-old Environmental Engineering student from Oulu University, worked as an intern in the QHSE team, and Markus, a 25-year-old from Eurajoki studying Computer Engineering at Lappeenranta University of Technology, landed a trainee position in the IT team. Let&rsquo;s hear from them what their expectations were at the start of the summer, and how well they were met during their trainee period.

Ilona&rsquo;s goal for the summer was to get to work with tasks that related to her field of studies: &quot;When I found the QHSE internship opening at Steerprop, I knew immediately it would match my interests and complement my studies. I also wanted to learn more about the marine industry and about manufacturing.&quot;

Markus, who worked with the project team at Steerprop last summer, was looking for a deeper dive into the IT field this summer: &quot;This time, I knew what to expect. Unlike last year, I was already familiar with people, places and practices. Last year I gained experience in project teamwork, but I also collaborated extensively with Steerprop&#39;s IT team, so I already had some idea of the work involved for this year.&quot;

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<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/ilona_1-2caf5c9a-3baf-4df6-a836-d4e5f9a0db69_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Ilona Sj&ouml;blom, Environmental Engineering student from Oulu University, worked as an summer intern in the QHSE team. Ilona&rsquo;s goal for the summer was to get to work with tasks that related to her field of studies.</figcaption>
</figure>

Their summer work at Steerprop has supported Markus&rsquo; and Ilona&rsquo;s studies by giving many practical insights to support their more theoretical studies. The QHSE tasks Ilona worked with were diverse; she became familiar with different standards, carbon footprint calculations, quality documents, occupational safety matters etc.

<blockquote>
The best part of the summer was actually getting the opportunity to utilize what I&#39;ve learned at the university. The tasks were sometimes quite challenging, but rewarding, as that was when I actually learned the most, Ilona&nbsp;says.
</blockquote>

Markus, on the other hand, says the most interesting part of the summer job was gaining experience in many different IT-related matters, although he also felt it was just scratching the surface of the complexity of working with IT:

&quot;I worked as a member of the IT team, and even as the sole member when my superior was on summer holiday. My tasks involved a lot of work with devices, creating policies, instructions and guides, and helping other employees with various IT issues. I&#39;ve always known that IT is somewhat &rdquo;mysterious&rdquo;, but working in IT this summer showed how truly enigmatic it can be. Things break and fix themselves and sometimes when faults are found, fixing them can be extremely challenging. However, it was always gratifying when I managed to fix a colleague&#39;s IT problem and received positive feedback. That always brought a smile to my face,&quot; Markus says.

At Steerprop Ilona and Markus found a supportive working community that helped them grow and gain practical work experience. Their experiences have supported their studies and have influenced their perspectives on future career choices and aspirations.

The highlight of Ilona&rsquo;s summer was getting the opportunity to write her Master&rsquo;s thesis for Steerprop:

&quot;There were many great moments during the summer, but the best one was when I found out I&rsquo;m going to be able to write my thesis on a subject that genuinely interests me and that I had spent a lot of time on during the summer. I&#39;m also very grateful to my supervisor who has taught me so much and who gave me this opportunity!&nbsp;This past summer taught me a lot about the kind of work I want to do in the future. The trainee period was incredibly beneficial for my studies as the tasks perfectly matched the study modules covered at school,&quot; Ilona says.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/markus_1-d06f1e50-9117-48a0-b8de-5ca608a9d301_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Markus Taulu is studying Computer Engineering at Lappeenranta University of Technology. Markus appreciated the positive atmosphere at Steerprop where work is often done with a twinkle in the eye.</figcaption>
</figure>

Markus appreciated the positive atmosphere at Steerprop where work is often done with a twinkle in the eye:

<blockquote>
I got to participate in discussions and make suggestions, and it always felt like my input was considered, making the work much more enjoyable and lowering the threshold for proposing ideas, Markus&nbsp;explains.
</blockquote>

For the future Markus doesn&rsquo;t have any concrete plans yet:

&quot;I believe all the IT-related experience I gained will be useful for me in the future, because the subject is extremely vast. However, right now, my only concrete plan for the future is to continue my studies. Perhaps I could do my thesis for Steerprop, but first, I need approval for the topic and an agreement to work on it.&quot;

Overall, Ilona and Markus agree they had a rewarding summer with us at Steerprop. They were exposed to diverse challenges and opportunities and were able to apply their theoretical knowledge in practical work. Ilona and Markus concludes:

<blockquote>
The past summer was fantastic; it just went by too quickly. We had just the right amount of responsibility, feeling that our work genuinely mattered. Steerprop has a great team with wonderful team spirit. Things are handled as a team and there&rsquo;s always an effort to improve things. Thank you!
</blockquote>

<h2 class="article__heading--h2">Are you looking for a summerjob or thesis topic?</h2>

Check out our open summer job positions <a href="https://steerprop.com/careers/summer24" rel="noopener" target="_blank">here</a> and apply!

&nbsp;

This past summer Steerprop had the opportunity to get to know Ilona Sjöblom and Markus Taulu, two out of many Master’s degree students that worked with us in various summer trainee positions.

Summer trainees appreciate Steerprop’s positive work environment

Answering today&rsquo;s maritime industry requirements for propulsion, Steerprop introduces the next generation of Contra Rotating Propellers (CRP) with an unwavering focus on overall energy efficiency and reliability. Precision-engineered to deliver optimal performance, these CRPs embody the peak of marine propulsion technology. 

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">The Anchor of Reliability</h3>

Built on a foundation of proven technology and a fusion of over 20 years of expertise and cutting-edge R&amp;D, Steerprop&#39;s next generation of CRPs stands as a trusted brand of reliability in the maritime industry. With a track record of navigating challenges seamlessly, these propellers instill confidence in everyday operations.

<blockquote>
Propulsion plays an integral role in the overall efficiency of maritime operations. At the core of our commitment towards customers, we strive to reduce the CO2 footprint of our customers&#39; operations. We want to do our share in minimizing carbon emissions and promoting greener future for the maritime industry, says Anu Peippo, Offshore Segment Director at Steerprop.
</blockquote>

Precision Engineering at its Finest

Steerprop&#39;s dedication to precision engineering forms the foundation of the next generation of CRPs. Utilizing parametric design principles and optimal sizing, these next generation of CRPs are tailored to deliver peak performance while maintaining a keen focus on cost-effectiveness. This multifunctional propulsor exhibits excellent performance in transit as well as in Dynamic Positioning (DP). The project-based design approach ensures a bespoke solution for each vessel, pushing the boundaries of what&#39;s possible in marine propulsion. Steerprop&#39;s next generation of CRPs are available in the power range from 500 to 4,000 kW.

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<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/ng_crpunit3-817172d4-c4a3-41aa-a2d4-ff08144c2417_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Steerprop&#39;s next generation of CRPs are available in power range from 500 to 4,000 kW.</figcaption>
</figure>

<blockquote>
Steerprop&#39;s next generation of CRPs offers optimal Capital Expenditure (CAPEX) with a perfect fit, eliminating the need for compromises. The result is not only cost-effectiveness but also low Operational Expenditure (OPEX) due to best-in-class mechanical and hydrodynamic efficiencies, explains Peippo.
</blockquote>

The next generation of CRP emerges as a solution perfectly aligned with the contemporary demands of marine propulsion. Remarkably energy-efficient and characterized by its quiet operation, this advanced propulsor stands as proof to cutting-edge technology. By seamlessly integrating efficiency with versatility, the next generation of CRP addresses the diverse and evolving needs of today&#39;s maritime industry, promising a quieter and more efficient journey on the open seas.

Answering today’s maritime industry requirements for propulsion, Steerprop introduces the next generation of Contra Rotating Propellers (CRPs) with an unwavering focus on overall energy efficiency and reliability.

The next generation of CRPs focuses on overall energy efficiency and reliability

Answering today’s maritime industry requirements for propulsion, Steerprop introduces the next generation of Contra Rotating Propellers (CRPs) with an unwavering focus on overall energy efficiency and reliability. Precision-engineered to deliver optimal performance, these CRPs embody the peak of marine propulsion technology. 

M/V Rem Energy is a champion for Green Transition: The Construction Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) performs demanding maintenance work at wind farms on the North Sea, using Steerprop&rsquo;s contra-rotating propellers to achieve operational excellence.

The Norwegian marine sector player Rem Offshore has a long-term charter contract with the German company Siemens Gamesa Renewable Energy for the servicing of two windfarms &ndash; Global Tech 1 and Borkum West 1 &ndash; which are located roughly 200 miles from the German port of Bremerhaven.

Emil Ganchev became the captain of M/V Rem Energy in March 2023 &ndash; or rather, he is taking turns with another captain upon the seas. &ldquo;We have a six-weeks-in, six-weeks-out rotation system,&rdquo; he explains.

Captain and his crew &ndash; numbering 23-25 seasoned sailors &ndash; make regular rounds to the offshore wind farms, unloading provisions that make sure that the wind farms&rsquo; operation can proceed without a hitch. Working on the North Sea, often in rough weather, you need a tested &ldquo;work horse&rdquo; to get the job done.

M/V Rem Energy, which was developed in close cooperation with designer HAV Design AS and the client, has several inventive features which meet future requirements for zero emissions and optimal workflow. Built at the Norwegian shipyard Green Yard Kleven in 2021, the ship is a great example of the client, designer team and the yard working together for great results.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Propulsion performance to handle rough seas</h3>

This &ldquo;green champion&rdquo; is also equipped with environmentally friendly propulsion technology: Rem Energy features two 2,100 kW Steerprop contra-rotating propellers (CRP). The propellers feature push-pull configuration that is designed to meet the toughest conditions, while combining the excellent maneuverability of azimuth propulsors with the top efficiency of the CRP technology.&nbsp;Per vessel specifications, DP operation is listed at 6,9 m3 /d at position keeping.

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<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/rem-energy_01-e11029ca-f2fb-4c12-b11e-e0d3602a904d_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Rem Energy features two 2,100 kW Steerprop contra-rotating propellers (CRP). Rem Energy Bridge Team</figcaption>
</figure>

Captain Ganchev explains that thanks to the vessel&rsquo;s propulsion system, Rem Energy is a good fit for demanding DP (Dynamic Positioning) operations. A dynamic positioning system automatically maintains a vessel&rsquo;s position and heading, by using its own propellers and thrusters.

<blockquote>
&ldquo;The propulsion system is very reliable. Working together with the thrusters, position keeping with the ship is just perfect,&rdquo; says the captain.
</blockquote>

Ensuring the crucial maintenance of offshore wind farms in the North Sea, one certainly needs that dynamic positioning edge to win the day. Steerprop contra-rotating propellers can deliver this in spades:

&ldquo;Obviously, we have to move with great precision around the wind farms. With our system, we can work in any direction, which is a great enabler in our line of work,&rdquo; he says.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Great user experience makes a difference </h3>

Captain Ganchev has been sailing the seas since 2003, having been in the service of the offshore industry since 2009. Chief Engineer of Rem Energy, Iliyan Trayanov, has been on the seas even longer, having started his career back in 1990. They both agree that in addition to great performance and reliability, the Steerprop CRP propulsion system is also pretty handy to use.

&ldquo;The Steerprop system is very user-friendly, we&rsquo;ve had no problems operating it,&rdquo; say the men in unison.

Maintenance of the propulsion system is also quite straightforward and hassle-free. &ldquo;We have scheduled maintenance upon dry docking. When we are at sea, there is also Remote Assistance available from Steerprop if there are any problems,&rdquo; says the captain, adding that they haven&rsquo;t needed it yet.

In addition to Rem Energy using Steerprop technology, company&rsquo;s vessels Rem Mistral, Rem Art, Rem Star, Rem Arctic, Rem Insula and Rem Cetus are all equipped with the same system.

<h3 class="article__heading--h3">Future-proof and ready for green hydrogen </h3>

The sustainable angle is important for Rem Offshore and Siemens Gamesa alike. Upon announcing the contract, Fredrik Rem&oslash;y, the former CEO of Rem Offshore, said that the company wants to continue supporting Siemens Gamesa in their quest for optimal solutions for the offshore wind industry, noting that Rem Offshore has dedicated &ldquo;large resources for growth in renewables&rdquo;.

Wholly in tune with this, Rem Energy stands ready to meet the future demands for zero emissions: it is capable of operating by using a battery and fuel cell system, powered by green hydrogen.

&ldquo;The vessel has that capability built-in, but it is not in use as of yet,&rdquo; says Ganchev. In fact, Rem Energy is the first hydrogen battery-ready vessel utilized by Siemens Gamesa.

M/V Rem Energy is a champion for Green Transition: The Construction Service Operation Vessel (CSOV) performs demanding maintenance work at wind farms on the North Sea, using Steerprop’s contra-rotating propellers to achieve operational excellence.  

Steerprop delivers propulsion edge to Rem Energy

Krista Kuusela, 25 years old, from Rauma and Erik Korhonen, 24, originally from Oulu, worked with us as trainees in the summer of 2023. Both are now in their final stages of studies; Krista is studying to become an electrical and automation engineer at Satakunta University of Applied Sciences and Erik is studying at the University of Oulu, majoring in mechanical engineering with a focus on machine design. We have spoken to them to hear more about how they experienced working at Steerprop during this past summer.

Krista had been looking for a suitable summer job in electrical design, an area in which she hadn&rsquo;t worked previously. She had, however, some experience from working in the maritime industry previously, and thanks to the summer job at Steerprop, she got to consider maritime regulations a bit more from an electrical angle and learned to understand what standards needed to be applied, and how:

<blockquote>
My goal was to accumulate skills and experience in the realm of design, I expected to learn something new, and these expectations were very much fulfilled &ndash; I have learned a lot this summer!
</blockquote>

Just as Krista, Erik was also looking for practical work experience within his field of studies, i.e. in the field of mechanical design:

&quot;Before sending in my job application, I had never heard of Steerprop. After researching their website, I got the impression that quality really matters at this company. This impression proved to reflect the reality at Steerprop very much; things aren&#39;t done just &ldquo;well enough&rdquo;, but as well as they possibly can be.

<blockquote>
My goal was to gain practical experience in the field of mechanical design, and my expectations were certainly both met and exceeded. I was surprised by how much I actually got to do. I&#39;ve heard stories about summer interns at other companies that only got to run someone else&#39;s errands. At Steerprop, that really wasn&#39;t a concern; I could independently handle my tasks within projects.
</blockquote>

Both Erik and Krista were pleasantly surprised by how diverse their work during the summer was. They both got to work independently within various design projects and with different tasks. Krista conducted small-scale research, created guidelines for production, and provided instructions related to electrical safety. Erik, for his part, handled various tasks in mechanical design, designing components and tools, performing calculations and creating drawings.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="&quot;I do see the potential to work in the marine industry, perhaps in propeller design, says Krista Kuusela." src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/krista_1-6c0e4599-dabc-497a-b7c5-742fbfc8238f_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>&quot;I do see the potential to work in the marine industry, perhaps in propeller design, says Krista Kuusela.</figcaption>
</figure>

&quot;It was surprising how extensive the tasks were; I didn&#39;t expect the work to be so diverse, which was, of course, a very positive experience, Krista says.

&quot;The best part was that my work was needed and put to use, allowing me to delve deeper into electrical standards and to gain a broader understanding of electric motors,&quot; she continues.

One of Erik&rsquo;s main takeaways from the summer was noticing how well the theoretical studies at university corresponded to actual practical work. Nevertheless, he also learned a lot during the trainee period. Looking back at some of the most beneficial learnings, he explains:

&quot;Perhaps the best part was learning through independent work. From a future designer&#39;s perspective, the most interesting aspect was getting a closer look inside devices, understanding what&#39;s there, and how everything operates&quot;, he says.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="Erik Korhonen continues to work part-time at Steerprop remotely from Oulu, alongside his studies." src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/erik_1-9de17805-7e38-4339-9bd1-92398515c9b4_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<figcaption>Erik Korhonen continues to work part-time at Steerprop remotely from Oulu, alongside his studies.</figcaption>
</figure>

Almost everything learned during the summer will surely be beneficial. Especially the manufacturing stages of components, their manufacturability and assembly sequences provided new insights that have not been extensively covered within my studies. Additionally, I hadn&#39;t done much project-oriented work before, but now I have a solid foundation in that area too.

Both Krista and Erik highly appreciated the positive work environment at Steerprop, the supportive colleagues, and the learning opportunities their respective roles provided. They have both gained valuable insights that they believe will be useful in their future careers.

&quot;The work environment and colleagues were really pleasant. My supervisor was fantastic, providing guidance throughout the summer, not just at the beginning of the internship. The overall atmosphere in the office was calm and relaxed, making work enjoyable&quot;, Krista says.

&quot;It was a very nice summer in terms of work. Everyone was approachable, always ready to help. The team spirit was excellent; conversations flowed, and everyone made sure no one was left behind when heading out for lunch or coffee. We also spent time together outside work, so I guess my colleagues now count as new friends&quot;, Erik adds.

Neither Erik nor Krista have definite plans for the future, except for finishing their studies, but both could, based on their positive experience at Steerprop, consider a career within the maritime industry:

&quot;I haven&rsquo;t thought about or decided on my future career path; I&#39;m interested in everything in my field of studies. However, I do see the potential to work in the marine industry, perhaps in propeller design&quot;, says Krista.

&quot;I&#39;ll continue working part-time at Steerprop remotely from Oulu, alongside my studies. Other than that I haven&rsquo;t really had the time to think any further into the future. However, my experience this summer has definitively confirmed my initial thoughts about wanting to work with cutting-edge product development. Whether it&#39;s in the maritime industry, forest industry, or something in between, time will tell&quot;, Erik continues.

All in all, Krista and Erik had a rewarding and enriching summer. At Steerprop they found a supportive environment for professional growth. Their experiences were characterized by meaningful work, a positive workplace culture, and the opportunity to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application.

<h2 class="article__heading--h2">Are you looking for a summerjob or thesis topic?</h2>

Check out our open summer job positions <a href="https://steerprop.com/careers/summer24">here</a> and apply!

A summer at Steerprop – an opportunity to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application

A summer at Steerprop links theory to practice

A summer at Steerprop – an opportunity to bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application.

We at Steerprop come from a culture of curiosity for our customers&rsquo; business and of applying our enthusiasm, experience and innovation to improve it. Our culture is built on working for a purpose, on designing and delivering solutions that have a real impact and make a real difference. This resolve to perform&nbsp;has always guided the ingenious minds of the Steerprop R&amp;D department.

We provide our customers with superior propulsion units with outstanding efficiency, exceptional reliability and the lowest lifecycle costs on the market. Our gear design specialists, technical analysts and hydrodynamists are all working hard toward this end.

<blockquote>
With our high-quality propeller designs we improve propulsion efficiency, we also constantly work on lowering mechanical losses and optimizing the shapes of underwater parts. The equation is easy - more efficient propulsion units means lower fuel consumption and better returns for our customers!
</blockquote>

The reliability of our propulsion units is essential. They are used on vessels involved in very critical operations, such as ice management, on icebreakers, oil platforms, wind farm maintenance vessels and cruise vessels, where any interruption can cause huge losses. To maximize the reliability of the propulsion units, our technical department needs to consider the challenging conditions in both open and icy waters in their calculations. For example, different kinds of load cases need to be considered and propulsor tooth contact patterns need to be designed to be ideal for every specific condition and situation.

To ensure lowest lifecycle costs, we have developed Steerprop Care, our condition monitoring service, which enables us to support our customers in their operations and ensure operational quality throughout the lifetime of the vessel. For example, by monitoring the life of the propulsor unit&rsquo;s power transmission line, unnecessary downtime and maintenance can be avoided and both time and money can be saved. Steerprop Care turns unplanned disturbances into planned service.

<figure class="article__figure">
<div class="article__figure__placeholder"><img alt="Our R&amp;D specialist work in close cooperation with our component suppliers and manufacturers" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/shutterstock_1682600965_crop_green_small-d9ea0973-3acd-4763-ab4b-c4767cbb2c09_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>
</figure>

<h2 class="article__heading--h2">Close cooperation to achieve the very best</h2>

To be able to add true value to our customers&rsquo; business, we are always open to new ideas and developments. This requires close cooperation with our component suppliers and manufacturers, listening to their research projects, being curious and continuously learning more.

The maritime industry also presents new challenges. When customers ask eg. for larger propulsors, it calls for complex considerations when it comes to material properties and manufacturability. By working in close cooperation with the world&rsquo;s leading component manufacturers, we can meet these industry challenges. For example, cooperation with companies that specialize in gears has helped us to achieve the proper hardening depths for gear sets. In this way, we can shape the lower body and get even greater results in efficiency.

<blockquote>
Only the best is good enough for us. We do not make any compromises when it comes to reliability. As we are determined to create even more efficient propulsion systems for the market, we concentrate on optimizing the shape of underwater parts to minimize flow resistance and take greater advantages of the contra-rotating propellers. In our optimization studies, we use model tests and CFD calculations.
</blockquote>

As part of our commitment to developing propulsion technology that improve overall efficiency, we have developed the contra-rotating propulsion (CRP) technology ECO product line. The whole propulsor is pressure lubricated to lower mechanical losses compared with the commonly used oil bath lubrication technology. To ensure the reliability of the propulsion units, they are subject to comprehensive factory tests where the functionality of the system is tested and verified.

Another big development is our Steerprop LM unit, which uses an integrated permanent magnet (PM) motor that offers much better efficiency compared to a traditional induction electric motor. Moreover, by replacing our upper gear with an LM motor, we get more room in the ship for other components and we can avoid upper gear excitations in the ship hull, which is especially important for cruise vessels.

<h2 class="article__heading--h2">Teamwork all the way</h2>

Resolving the challenges in the market and delivering on our promise is not a one-person process or project. To succeed in performing the very best solutions for our customers, it is important to be surrounded by visionaries and brilliant individuals that work together for a common goal.

Steerprop&rsquo;s R&amp;D department has highly motivated in-house experts from many different fields. Along with external specialists, we work closely together to produce outstanding propulsion solutions. We do our very best every day, bringing skills from mechanical design and analyzing, hydraulics, hydrodynamics, materials, and sealing systems to create superior products to meet our customers&rsquo; needs.

<blockquote>
In this way, we can fulfill our customers&rsquo; demands for more efficient and more reliable propulsion systems with the best lifecycle costs on the market.
</blockquote>

<h2 class="article__heading--h2"> 
Author</h2>

<aside class="flockler__media">
<div class="flockler__media__img"><img alt="" src="https://flockler.com/thumbs/sites/13425/210126-1-569-22e66165-ae11-4d63-9bd1-da8d5e9d770d_s600x0_q80_noupscale.jpg" /></div>

<div class="flockler__media__body">
<div class="flockler__media__description">
Janne Martikainen 
Director, Technology and Product Management

Janne holds a M.Sc. in Mechanical Engineering from Aalto University and joined Steerprop in 2013. He is responsible for the development of the Steerprop product portfolio, engineering for R&amp;D as well as project engineering. His main focus is to continuously improve design practices, in order for Steerprop to be able to create the most customer driven, reliable and flexible products on the market.
</div>
</div>
</aside>

&nbsp;

Our culture is built on working for a purpose, on designing and delivering solutions that have a real impact and make a real difference. This resolve to perform has always guided the ingenious minds of the Steerprop R&D department.

Propulsion innovations that challenge the industry

Steerprop is a leading designer and manufacturer of azimuth propulsion systems for the most demanding applications and toughest conditions.
Our culture is built on working for a purpose, on designing and delivering solutions that have a real impact and make a real difference.


Propulsion innovations that challenge the industry

Steerprop Selected to Provide Comprehensive Propulsion Systems for World's Largest Cable-Laying Vessel

Steerprop Selected to Supply Main Propulsion and Tunnel Thrusters for Canadian Coast Guard Multi-Purpose Vessels Program

Steerprop appoints experienced maritime professional as new Production Director

Steerprop Stories

Ilona's Second Summer at Steerprop – Sustainability in focus

Gaining hands-on experience and building a career vision

Steerprop´s Summer Trainee Positions are Open!

Steerprop Selected to Provide Comprehensive Propulsion Systems for World's Largest Cable-Laying Vessel

Steerprop appoints experienced maritime professional as new Production Director

Steerprop Selected to Supply Main Propulsion and Tunnel Thrusters for Canadian Coast Guard Multi-Purpose Vessels Program

Tugboat Artemis tackles ice woes with fit-for-purpose innovation

Focusing on minimizing underwater radiated noise

Summer trainees appreciate Steerprop’s positive work environment

The next generation of CRPs focuses on overall energy efficiency and reliability

Steerprop delivers propulsion edge to Rem Energy

A summer at Steerprop links theory to practice