For over 25 years, Global Maritime Middle East (ME) has proudly supported offshore and marine projects across the region. In this spotlight, we introduce Manasi Akut, Senior Structural Engineer and Marine Warranty Surveyor based in Abu Dhabi.
With more than a decade of experience in offshore engineering and operations support, Manasi brings a wealth of expertise in installation engineering, pipelay analysis and structural design and analysis with exposure to marine warranty surveying (MWS). Manasi's technical skills and project management skills have played a key role in delivering high-profile projects, including offshore platform and wind farm designs and MWS operations.
What inspired you to pursue a career in offshore and marine services?
My interest in mathematics and physics—especially structural mechanics and fluid dynamics — led me to pursue Mechanical Engineering with further specialization in Offshore Structures. Offshore and marine services offer a technically challenging, ever-evolving environment that’s far from mundane. Each day brings new and exciting problems to solve, allowing me to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world engineering while contributing to safe, sustainable, and impactful marine operations.
How has your journey with GM evolved since you joined?
Having joined GM recently, my journey has already been enriching and full of learning. Starting with a strong technical foundation, I’ve evolved through challenging offshore projects, gaining hands-on experience and deeper insight into marine warranty surveying. I’ve found the work both technically challenging and exciting. The dynamic nature of the role keeps it interesting, and I’m proud to contribute to the impactful projects GM delivers globally.
What standout projects have you worked on, and how have they helped shape your skills or career journey?
I’ve worked on fabrication yard for loadouts visited heavy lift and pipelay vessels for ensuring operational readiness before offshore campaigns when I worked for my previous companies, and now continue to build on that experience through MWS attendances at GM. These projects have sharpened my technical skills and deepened my understanding of offshore operations. Liaising with diverse stakeholders with clear communication and managing different teams is the key to successful execution, blending engineering expertise with coordination and leadership in a dynamic environment.
What does it mean to you to be a woman in engineering?
To me, being a woman in engineering means showing that talent, capability, and intellect have no gender. It is about proving through my work that men and women are equally capable of solving complex problems, leading teams, and driving innovation. I take pride in being part of a generation that’s helping to remove gender bias in traditionally male-dominated fields like offshore/marine engineering by directly contributing to engineering and operations which is all about passion, curiosity, and determination above all else.
What advice would you give to young females interested in engineering?
My advice to young females interested in engineering is to believe in yourself and never doubt your place in this field. Don’t be afraid to take on challenges or step outside your comfort zone and work hard - that’s where real growth happens. Be confident and communicate clearly with your male counterparts; professionalism and mutual respect go a long way in building trust and teamwork. Carry yourself with high self-esteem and stay focused on learning and growth. The more you lead with confidence and integrity, the more you help create a truly equal and supportive engineering environment.
Lastly, what do you enjoy most about working at Global Maritime?
What I enjoy most about working at Global Maritime is the dynamic, technically challenging nature of the projects and the opportunity to learn from experienced professionals. The supportive office culture, flexible working arrangements, and emphasis on work-life balance make it a great place to work. I value the collaborative environment and feel proud to contribute to safe, sustainable marine operations alongside a passionate and skilled team.
