Meet Catherine Wagner, Engineering Manager at Offshore Spars, a marine manufacturer of carbon fiber spars. Catherine brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to her role, having previously worked in the marine industry at Hall Spars and Harken. With a degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from the University of Michigan, Catherine's passion for the marine world is evident in her work.
"I was always interested in sailing," Catherine shares. "I grew up with a love for the water, and I was on the sailing team in college. I wanted to be in the sailing space." This personal connection to the marine world has deeply influenced her career and allows her to connect with clients on a deeper level. This shared experience gives her invaluable insight into a client's perspective. She can communicate effectively, ensuring everyone understands each other and refers to the same components and their intended use. Catherine emphasizes the importance of understanding the 'feel' of being on a boat – the ease of operation, the desired handling characteristics – and how these factors influence the design and functionality of the spars.
Catherine has been involved in numerous successful projects at Offshore Spars. Some of her favorites include collaborations with Brooklin Boat Yard, such as the Taylor 44 where they designed the mast and furling boom for a new custom-built day cruiser. This project served as a turning point for her, marking her increased ownership and confidence within the company. This project and others with the boat yard, she recalls, were particularly rewarding due to the smooth collaboration and clear communication with the client.
"I think I really headed that one," Catherine says, reflecting on the Taylor 44 project. "It just felt like I had turned a corner with my own personal experience at the company and my knowledge."
Catherine also recalls working on the ‘Sprint 7’ (Michele Molino 31) to create a new hybrid high and standard modulus mast for the existing boat. This project was for a racing boat based out of Bayview Yacht Club, a local yacht club where Catherine occasionally sails, and it was a joyful project where Catherine worked closely with a passionate and kind owner and crew. One of the joys of working as a marine manufacturer on diverse projects, Catherine emphasizes, is the constant need to adapt, requiring continuous learning and unlearning.
When asked about the future of spar technology, Catherine highlights the increasing adoption of carbon fiber as a vital material. "I think more and more people are switching to carbon rigs," she explains. "It's becoming more of a standard, not just for high-end race boats, but for cruising and recreational racing sailors as well."
This shift necessitates a focus on customization and close client collaboration, which is particularly crucial when clients are investing in the higher cost of carbon fiber compared to more traditional (and cheaper) aluminum options. "We work closely with clients to understand their specific needs," she says. "This allows us to tailor our products to meet their unique requirements and deliver the best possible performance."
A typical day for Catherine, heading the marine manufacturer's team is dynamic and multifaceted. She begins by addressing any immediate needs from the shop floor, ensuring that the fabrication team has the necessary information and support.
"I'm involved with the detailing, and designing of the mast," she explains. "I also communicate with the customer, identify their needs and wishes for the project, and make sure that those are translated into the project."
This hands-on approach inspires Catherine to stay involved in every stage of the project, from initial design to final assembly. "I really enjoy that I get to design something and then actually get to see it built," she says. "It's just so rewarding. There aren't a lot of engineering positions where you get to be so involved with the thing you're building."
She also speaks highly of her colleagues, stating that even after becoming a new mom, the welcoming environment at Offshore Spars inspired her to continue working. Catherine found that she enjoyed the work too much to stay away. The company's positive atmosphere and the rewarding nature of her projects made it an easy decision to continue her career at Offshore Spars. The collaborative environment, coupled with the opportunity to work on interesting projects, has kept Catherine motivated and engaged every day.
The team is currently committed to the design of the Andrews 56, a project featuring a high-modulus mast and standard modulus boom. Senior engineer Ed Chase has recently finalized the global rig layout in close collaboration with the architect, client, and sailmaker. Ed and Catherine will now detail the specific areas of the rig, ensuring optimal performance and structural integrity for this ambitious project.
With her expertise and dedication, Catherine is poised to continue making significant contributions to Offshore Spars. As the company continues to push the boundaries of spar technology, Catherine's insights and leadership will be invaluable in navigating the evolving demands of the marine industry.
To learn more about Offshore Spars and our innovative carbon fiber solutions, please feel free to get in touch.
