Project Management

Truly thrown in at the deep end of this special subsea project, Dan took on the Project Manager role in February 2024. At that point, the construction phase was about to begin and he admits to it being a whirlwind experience. But this was no sink or swim moment – simply the next step in his natural progression within the company, and the well-oiled machine that is the Royal IHC workforce quickly brought him up to speed. 

“Everyone has been very supportive,” says Dan, reflecting on a busy few months as he proudly surveys the workshop and the impressive Amphibious Hi-Traq® Jetter. “We’ve got a good team working on it, and the buy-in from the full business. Everyone is really interested in this vehicle and wants to make it work.”

Linking all areas of the business – from sales to engineering, procurement, construction, commissioning, delivery and services – Dan’s position gives him a unique perspective on the project and those involved. “All the different disciplines, such as mechanical and electrical engineering, as well as software and hydraulic, have worked well together – we haven’t had many issues between them. This is the best teamwork I’ve seen so far while working at Royal IHC.”

So what’s the secret to such good cooperation, particularly when so much is at stake – a bespoke vehicle, a first for the US industry, and within a demanding timeframe? 

I get them together once or twice a week, find out what everyone is working on and get them all singing from the same hymn sheet.”

Communication is the key, it seems – not only internally, but also with local suppliers and the customer, with whom he is closely involved. Managing their relationship has also been plain sailing so far: “Caldwell has been an excellent customer to work with, they are relaxed and easy to get along with. We have an open and honest relationship, so if things don’t go as planned, we tell them what’s happened and make sure they are kept in the loop.”

The unassuming team player gives the impression that this has been a textbook project, which has almost run itself. Is there more to it than meets the eye, however? Like the Amphibious Hi-Traq® Jetter, perhaps it’s necessary to dig a little deeper to unearth the whole story… 

Exploring below the surface of the smooth-running and rapid design and build process, it becomes apparent that not everything has gone quite according to plan: “The project never runs as per the first plan you do. There will always be challenges you haven’t foreseen – a supplier may be late, or something doesn’t fit. 

Dan’s ‘attacking’ style involves staying one step ahead, anticipating issues, and ensuring everything stays on track. His meticulous attention to detail, relentless positivity and pragmatic problem-solving abilities have made the difference. But it has not been easy, he reluctantly admits: “Is it stressful being a project manager? Yes! But don’t mention that!” he says, with a laugh. “I just maintain a positive attitude and keep everyone onside,” he says, modestly. 

Before the factory acceptance test (FAT), his colleagues must complete the commissioning phase and prove the vehicle is capable of doing what they said it would do. Time for a final dose of Dan’s pragmatic optimism: “We’ve had some issues with commissioning, there’s always something that needs to be overcome, but as a team we will manage to get it sorted.”

Will the Amphibious Hi-Traq Jetter perform as promised and overcome the final commissioning hurdle? Would CMI be rewarded for having faith in an industry first? Scott Wardle, Royal IHC’s Head of Construction and Commissioning, continues the story…