You recently inaugurated the innovative maritime automation lab at BCA COLLEGE. Tell us a bit about this state-of-the-art facility and what it is going to change maritime education and industry practic- es for both students and shipping companies?
The inauguration of the state-of-the-art Maritime Automation Lab at BCA College by CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. represents a significant advancement in maritime education and industry practices. It not only provides students with the tools and knowledge needed for success in the industry but also strengthens the connection between academia and shipping companies, fostering a collaborative and innovative approach to maritime education and practices.
One of the most important factors for business success is the ability to address customer needs. Describe how CMA D.
ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. listens to these needs and provides solutions to its customers’ problems.
CMA’s strategy to address its customers’ needs and provide solutions is important to its day-to-day business. More specifically, it regularly seeks feedback from customers through surveys, interviews or feedback forms to understand their challenges, preferences and expectations. It uses a CRM system to track customer interactions, preferences and feedback, allowing it to tailor its services to individual customer needs. Conducts thorough market research to stay abreast of industry trends, emerging technologies and evolving customer needs. Offers customized solutions that meet each client’s unique requirements, demonstrating a commit- ment to meeting specific needs rather than providing generic solutions. Embraces a culture of continuous improvement, where CMA actively undertakes to update its products and services based on changing cus- tomer needs and technological advances.
With a recent two companies CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. and LEPLAN IKE came together by joining forces. What do you expect from this agreement?
By joining forces, CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A and LEPLAN P.C aim to provide a comprehensive and seamless solution to clients seeking custom or mass production state-of-the-art Marine & Industrial Automation systems. The key benefits of this partnership include:
• Clients can expect a more efficient and cost-effective automation process, thanks to the seamless integration of the Virtual E-CAD Engineering design with CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A’s world-class products and services.
• The partnership will ensure that projects are equipped with the latest safety and security measures, meeting the highest industry standards.
• CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A’s global presence combined with LEPLAN’s innovative automation solutions means that clients worldwide can benefit from this collaboration.
• Clients will have access to a team of experts with an in-depth under- standing of both Marine & Industrial Automation and IoT technology, providing guidance and support at every step of the project.
What do the words technology, expertise and innovation mean to you and how do you put these three words into practice for the benefit of your customers?
In the context of maritime, industrial and energy automation, “technology” includes advanced control systems, sensors, communication networks and software applications tailored to specific industry needs. CMA invests in cutting-edge technologies such as the Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence (AI), machine learning and robotics to enhance the efficiency, safety and reliability of its solutions.
“Expertise” denotes deep knowledge and skills in the maritime, industrial and energy automation sectors. It involves having a team of profession- als who understand the complexities of the industry, have a deep knowl- edge of the relevant technologies and are able to provide customized solutions to meet the specific needs of their clients, which CMA has been doing for 35 years.
‘Innovation’ refers to the ability to introduce new and creative solutions that go beyond existing standards. This at CMA includes developing new approaches to automation, incorporating emerging technologies and staying on top of industry trends to provide our customers with cut- ting-edge solutions that meet their evolving needs.
Can new automation solutions focusing on energy efficiency, sustainability, artificial intelligence benefit maritime companies and their executives, and how? What do you think will be the maritime automation solutions in the near future?
New automation solutions that focus on energy efficiency, sustainability, and artificial intelligence (AI) can indeed provide significant benefits to maritime companies and their executives.
In the near future, we can expect the continued evolution of these technologies, with advancements in machine learning, sensor technolo- gies, and connectivity. The integration of 5G and IoT (Internet of Things) technologies will also play a crucial role in improving data exchange and communication between vessels, ports, and shore-based systems. The maritime industry is likely to see increased adoption of smart, connected, and autonomous solutions to enhance efficiency, reduce costs, and meet sustainability goals.
What are the benefits you will gain from the opening of your new subsidiary, CMA Singapore? Is this decision an embodiment of your drive for ever-improving professionalism and quality customer service?
Our decision to open a CMA branch in Singapore is driven by our commitment to improve professionalism and enhance customer service, which indicates our focus on providing better service and growing the business. Expanding into new markets may indeed be a strategic move to achieve these goals, a decision that aligns with the company’s overall objectives and is part of our long-term strategy.
The importance that CMA D. ARGOUDELIS & CO S.A. places on its female employees is also shown by its distinction in the Great Place to Work® Best WorkplacesTM for Women Hellas 2023 list, where it was ranked 3rd nationwide in the 50-250 employee size category. What message do you want to pass on to young women seeking a career in shipping and to those already working in this industry?
Women have made a significant contribution to the shipping industry and there are increasing opportunities for those who wish to pursue a career in this sector. Continuous learning will not only enhance their skills but also make them a valuable asset to a company. Building a strong net- work can provide mentoring, guidance and potential career opportunities. The shipping industry can be demanding, but it is vital that you maintain a healthy work-life balance. Set boundaries, prioritise self-care and com- municate openly with your colleagues and supervisors about your needs. Aim high and set ambitious career goals. Your dedication, skills and passion can contribute to your success and inspire others in the industry.
2024 is just around the corner. What are your ambitions for the new year? Do you think you have laid the foundations for further growth? And finally, what challenges will maritime automation face in the coming years?
Our ambitions for the new year are firmly centered on innovation and ex- pansion. We aim to solidify our position as industry leaders by embracing cutting-edge technologies and exploring new market opportunities. Our focus will be on integrating AI and IoT into our existing systems, enhanc- ing efficiency and sustainability.
We are confident that we have laid a robust foundation for further growth. Over the past years, we have invested significantly in research and development, forming strategic partnerships and diversifying our service offerings. This groundwork not only positions us well for future expansion but also ensures we remain at the forefront of technological advance- ments in marine automation and high-quality services.
Looking ahead, the maritime automation sector faces several challenges. One of the primary challenges is ensuring cybersecurity in increasingly digitized operations, as the risk of cyber threats grows with technolog- ical advancement. Additionally, regulatory compliance, particularly in response to environmental concerns, will be a key focus. Adapting to new regulations and maintaining eco-friendly operations without com- promising efficiency will be critical. We are committed to tackling these challenges head-on, ensuring that we continue to provide our clients with safe, reliable, and state-of-the-art automation solutions.
* From left Ioannis Argoudelis, Owner/CEO and Nikolaos Argoudelis, Owner/Technical Director.