Dave Oberczyk joined ACE Winches almost 14 years ago as a welding fabricator and since then, his career has rapidly developed. As Head of Sales for ACE Winches, he shares more about being part of the Ashtead Technology group and what life is like in this fast moving and challenging industry.
It has been nine months since the acquisition. What can you tell us of the journey so far?
It’s hard to believe it’s been nine months, but it’s clear that this acquisition has already opened some fantastic opportunities for us.
One of the highlights has been the collaboration that has developed almost immediately. We’ve brought together some brilliant minds from across the group, and we’ve launched a couple of projects that are already showing great promise. Watch out for some exciting news about collaboration between ACE Winches and our survey team in the next few months.
From project design to delivery, our customers now have access to a much wider range of products and services across the Ashtead Technology subsea and back deck technology offering.
What opportunities do you see for growth and development as part of the Ashtead Technology group?
Our core business at ACE Winches of equipment rental for lifting, pulling, and deployment remains the same and we are continuing to develop and add new equipment to our offering.
As part of the Ashtead Technology group, we now have twelve strategically placed hubs in the UK, USA, Norway, Middle East, and Singapore, which means we are connecting with a broader audience, and we are better placed to provide local support to our customers internationally.
You have been with ACE Winches almost 14 years. Tell us about your career journey so far?
I started my career with ACE Winches back in 2010 as a welding fabricator which means I know exactly how our equipment works, and what bit of kit or package of equipment is needed to do a particular job.
I then trained as a Mobilisation Technician before progressing to a Mobilisation Controller role, overseeing the testing, spooling, preparation and mobilisation of all our rental equipment.
Going offshore to our clients’ sites to install and commission our equipment, gave me first-hand experience of what our clients require from us. At ACE Winches the maintenance of our equipment, which is used in some of the harshest conditions is very important. We ensure every piece of equipment is kept to the same quality standard as the day it was manufactured.
It was 2015 where my sales journey began, and I was given the opportunity to become a Sales Engineer. It was a relatively smooth transition from the workshop to the office, as my hands-on experience with our equipment allowed me to not only recommend and provide the right solution to our customers, but also offer solid technical and practical operational advice as well.
Initially, I focused on the UK rental market, but as my experience and knowledge grew, I started covering international markets. Just in the last few weeks we’ve had equipment mobilising to South America and to Gulf of Mexico, as well as Australia so this really is an international operation. This progression led me to roles as Sales Manager and now Head of Sales, which has been a long-term goal and a significant achievement for my personal growth.
It’s clear you have a real passion for the business and what you do. Is it true you know every item of equipment in the rental portfolio?
Yes, it’s true and I take great pride in knowing the ACE Winches offering and equipment portfolio inside and out. Of course, none of this would be possible without the wider ACE Winches team and our expert engineering team and technicians. Their skills in the design, engineering, manufacturing, and maintenance of our equipment are the backbone of our operations. The dedication they bring to their craft ensures that every piece of equipment we offer is of the highest quality and reliability.
I’m fully invested in our success. Our collective efforts are what make this business so dynamic and rewarding, and I am proud to be a part of it.
Richard Lind, General Manager for Ashtead Technology’s Mechanical Solutions Centre of Excellence in Thainstone, Aberdeenshire, to discuss this plans for continuous growth in its technology, capabilities and people.
Richard, Ashtead Technology’s Mechanical Solutions Centre of Excellence has been making significant strides. Can you tell us about the growth of your team?
Absolutely! Over the past year, our team has grown a significant amount. We’ve been actively recruiting talented individuals who bring diverse perspectives and fresh ideas to the table. As we continue to expand on our technology portfolio, we aim to continue the recruitment drive with trainee mechanical technicians. Our focus is on building a team that is not only technically proficient but also highly collaborative, ensuring that we are always at the forefront of industry developments.
What cutting-edge technologies can trainee technicians expect to work with at Ashtead Technology?
At Ashtead Technology, we lead in technological innovation, designing equipment based on customer needs. Our latest creations include the patent-pending 23” Ring Saw, offering double the cut depth at half the size of conventional saws, and the Mattress Recovery Tool (MRT), a cost-effective solution for recovering subsea mattresses. As a trainee technician, you’ll receive comprehensive training to operate and maintain these advanced systems, preparing you for a successful career.
How does Ashtead Technology envision the growth of its Mechanical Solutions centre of excellence?
At Ashtead Technology, our growth focuses on three key pillars: technological advancement, capability expansion, and people development. By investing in the latest technologies and nurturing our talent through ongoing training, we enhance our services and explore new areas for expertise.
Our investments are yielding significant results, positioning us to tackle future challenges and seize new opportunities. We are committed to pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, ensuring we remain leaders in the mechanical solutions industry.
What opportunities does Ashtead Technology offer for aspiring Mechanical Technicians?
Ashtead Technology is dedicated to excellence and innovation. As a mechanical trainee technician, you’ll join a dynamic environment where collaboration and cutting-edge projects thrive. We offer structured training and mentorship to support your professional development and help you push the boundaries of mechanical solutions.
If you’re ready to take your career to the next level in mechanical engineering, Ashtead Technology is the place to be.
How can interested candidates apply to join your team?
If you’re excited about the prospect of joining our team and contributing to our growth story, we encourage you to apply online through our careers portal. We’re looking for motivated individuals who are eager to learn and grow with us. Take the first step towards a rewarding career at Ashtead Technology and join us in shaping the future of mechanical solutions.
What motivated you to pursue a career in engineering?
I have always been interested in electronics and engineering, so I decided to study this at college and see where it took me. Being one of few female students at Moray College Technical Campus was slightly daunting to begin with, especially after having a large group of female friends in high school. However, I settled in quickly, which made me even more determined to make my mark in the engineering world.
How has Ashtead Technology supported your career?
Since joining Ashtead Technology two years ago, my colleagues offshore as well as the office staff have been very supportive of me – both personally and professionally. The collaborative and supportive culture within the company has greatly contributed to my growth in my role, providing reassurance that I have a network of colleagues who are willing to offer their expertise and assistance whenever needed.
Could you tell us about a project you have particularly enjoyed working on during your time at Ashtead Technology?
My career was driven by a deep fascination with the subsea environment. The nature of the subsea industry and the complex challenges associated with its exploration and development ignited a strong interest within me. The energy sector’s dynamism and unwavering commitment to continuous innovation and progress make it a truly fascinating field. It is an industry that presents endless of opportunities for growth and positive impact, making it highly inspiring.
Could you tell us about a project you have particularly enjoyed working on during your time at Ashtead Technology?
My first project with Ashtead Technology was the NNG Offshore Wind Farm. During this project, I spent time on several vessels in the field and met some lovely people! The project came with its challenges, which allowed me to further my knowledge of Ashtead Technology systems and gain valuable experience liaising with clients and other working parties onboard the vessels.
While on the project I was working as part of a 3-person survey team, operating and maintaining the SCT (Sonar Calliper Tool) and UCS Dredge tool. After another vessel had drilled into the seabed and installed the casings, we could deploy the SCT to carry out scans in the socket. Once all the information had been gathered, a report would be complied by the Ashtead Technology team and issued to the client onboard.
In your opinion, what are some key initiatives or strategies that can help encourage more women to enter the engineering field?
I believe that an early exposure to STEM is important. Engaging with STEM subjects from a young age can build confidence in girls, making them more likely to pursue further education and careers in these areas. Normalising women in engineering is equally important. Some girls may be scared to break the mould and come away from the ‘stereotypical’ female careers due to lack of role models and support. I’m passionate about encouraging more women to pursue careers in engineering – I always enjoy talking to young females interested in pursuing a career in a ‘male dominated environment’.
What advice would you give to females looking to get into engineering?
Don’t be afraid to ask questions and explore all your career options! Engineers are required in almost every industry, not just offshore. By keeping an open mind and investigating various fields, you can find a career path that truly aligns with your interests and skills.
Which of Ashtead Technology’s values do you align with the most?
Each of Ashtead Technology’s values plays a significant role in achieving operational efficiency and effectiveness. However, if I were to choose one that I align with the most, it would be collaboration.
Collaboration is essential in my role because it involves working closely with various teams, departments, and stakeholders to ensure smooth operations, identify opportunities for improvement, and address challenges effectively.
Collaboration stands out to me as particularly essential for achieving operational success and fostering a supportive and cohesive work environment.
What do you enjoy most about your role?
It is the opportunity to lead and collaborate with a talented team to deliver exceptional results. I enjoy working in a fast-paced environment where every day brings new challenges and opportunities for growth. Being able to make a meaningful impact on the operations of the company and contribute to its success is incredibly rewarding.
What or who inspired you to choose your career?
My career was driven by a deep fascination with the subsea environment. The nature of the subsea industry and the complex challenges associated with its exploration and development ignited a strong interest with me. The energy sector’s dynamism and unwavering commitment to continuous innovation and progress make it a truly fascinating field. It is an industry that presents endless of opportunities for growth and positive impact, making it highly inspiring.
What makes Ashtead Technology stand out compared to other companies?
The company has a relentless focus on customer satisfaction, technological innovation, and commitment to excellence. We differentiate ourselves by offering cutting-edge technology, exceptional service, and unparalleled expertise in the industry. Our dedication to continuous improvement and delivering value to our customers sets us apart as a leader in the field. Ashtead Technology also continuously invests in its capabilities and its people to stay ahead of the curve and consistently deliver exceptional service while pushing the boundaries of what’s possible.
What ambitions have you still got to fulfil professionally in your career?
Personally, I aspire to further develop my leadership skills, expand my knowledge of emerging technologies, and drive sustainable growth and success for Ashtead Technology. I am committed to fostering a culture of innovation, collaboration, and excellence within the organisation while pursuing opportunities for personal and professional growth.
Given the experience you have now, what advice would you give a graduate just starting their career in the Energy sector?
The energy sector offers a dynamic and rewarding career path for graduates. While the industry can be demanding and requires dedication, the challenges are outweighed by the opportunities to make a real impact. There’s constant opportunity for learning as the sector is constantly evolving. The industry allows you to explore different areas to discover your niche and utilize your skills to make meaningful contributions. To create a strong foundation for your success, actively participate in industry events and network with colleagues and mentors to build strong relationships.
