From luxury yachts to national defence: Bronwyn Adamson's journey in maritime engineering
Bronwyn Adamson's career in engineering is as diverse as it is impressive, spanning various facets of the maritime industry including design, operations, maintenance, asset management, governance, and assurance.
Growing up with a passion for sailing and a keen interest in science and mathematics at school, Bronwyn was naturally drawn to engineering. She specialised in naval architecture at university.
With a foundation in naval architecture from Australia and experience as a chief engineer on luxury yachts, Bronwyn now brings her expertise to our Defence Marine Support Services (DMSS) contract as Deputy National Engineering Manager, offering a unique and specialised skill set.
Venturing overseas was a pivotal move in Bronwyn's career, leading her to the luxury yacht sector where she spent 11 years working as a marine engineer. She ascended through the ranks, earning qualifications as a chief engineer, and spent her time operating and maintaining luxury yachts.
“A significant highlight of my career was working as the chief engineer on the Oasis, a 60-metre motor yacht. As chief engineer, I was responsible for the day-to-day management of the vessel's engineering systems and hotel services, while also ensuring that safety systems were maintained to the highest standards,” Bronwyn said.
Six years ago, Bronwyn returned to Australia and transitioned into focusing on asset management, governance, and assurance. She initially worked at Rolls Royce Australia Services, followed by a stint at KBR where she was the lead engineer on the Amphibious Combat and Sealift Systems Program Office (ACSSPO). Her role encompassed managing engineering modifications, enhancing procedures, and overseeing Platform Systems and Naval Architecture—functions that required her to approve design proposals and provide specialist advice to stakeholders.
In her current role at Serco's DMSS contract, based in the National Support Office, Bronwyn supervises assurance, governance, and manages engineering alterations across their six locations in Australia. The team she leads is responsible for maintaining vessels for the Royal Australian Navy and executing various dockings.
Drawing on her extensive knowledge and expertise, Bronwyn has established herself as an expert in Serco's maintenance and management of the supported maritime fleet, driving efficiency in process and systems engineering. She is also striving to be a trusted advisor to the Navy on behalf of Serco.
Looking into the future, Bronwyn is excited by the emerging trends in the maritime engineering sector, particularly the initiation of hybrid and electric vessels, which she believes have the potential to revolutionise operations and offer significant environmental benefits. However, she is also aware of the challenges that come with this, particularly concerning the safety and logistical aspects of lithium batteries.
In recognition of International Women in Engineering Day, Bronwyn advises females considering a career in engineering to seize the available opportunities, be technically competent, and commit to continuous learning.