Captain Dr. Seyedvahid Vakili, Research Fellow in Sustainability, Energy and Net Zero Emissions in ( Maritime ) Industries at the University of Southampton, is thrilled by the prospect of contributing to the advancement of sustainable practices in the maritime industry. He is passionate about driving positive change and fostering a culture of environmental consciousness to align with the zero-emissions objectives.
Emphasizing the significance of cooperation and collective efforts, Captain Dr. Seyedvahid underscores the necessity of a comprehensive approach that encompasses the entire lifespan of vessels. According to him, venturing beyond his comfort zone has proven to be one of the most valuable pieces of advice, propelling him to dream big and prioritize values such as integrity and diligence. He firmly opposes any form of dishonesty or shortcuts, advocating for an unwavering commitment to honesty, persistence, and speaking the truth, even in the face of adversity.
SAFETY4SEA: How did it come about that you joined shipping industry and your field of expertise specifically?
Seyedvahid Vakili: Watching a documentary program about sailing and the role of a captain on a merchant ship sparked my interest in becoming a master mariner. After embarking on a career with a merchant shipping company and serving in various ranks such as deck cadet, third officer, second officer, chief officer, and captain, I made a significant transition in 2017 into academia. During my time at sea, I developed a deep passion for environmental issues, which ultimately led me to pursue a new path in academia. I enrolled in the Maritime Energy Management specialization at the World Maritime University in Malmo, Sweden. Here, I dedicated my efforts to advancing the cause of achieving net-zero emissions in the shipping industry, encompassing both ports and shipyards.
S4S: What about your current job/ role most excites you and why?
S.V.: Upon the completion of my PhD, I was privileged to be appointed as a research fellow at the University of Southampton (UoS) in the United Kingdom. In this capacity, my research is primarily centred around sustainability and energy, with a keen emphasis on achieving net-zero impacts across various sectors, particularly within the maritime domain. My research endeavours encompass a wide spectrum, ranging from vessels themselves to the broader onshore infrastructure, encompassing ports and shipyards. The most exhilarating aspect of my role is tackling real-world challenges within the industry while serving as a vital link between the maritime sector and the academic world. My responsibilities include identifying gaps in the industry and delivering solutions to critical questions, all with the overarching aim of advancing sustainability and catalysing positive transformations to meet zero emissions goals within the maritime sphere.
S4S: Who is/was the most influential person/mentor to you & why?
S.V.: When reflecting upon the most influential person or mentor in my life, I must emphasize the pivotal role played by my family, including my parents, siblings, and my wife. Their unwavering support has been a cornerstone of my career journey, whether as a seafarer or in the academic realm. Furthermore, I consider myself fortunate to have been guided by exceptional role models within both the maritime and academic spheres.
S4S: When you think of the word successful who’s the first person who comes to mind and why?
S.V.: When I contemplate the word “successful,” I don’t immediately think of a specific person. Instead, I envision anyone who sets meaningful goals, diligently pursues their dreams, and finds joy along their journey to achieving those goals. Success, in my view, is a deeply personal and multifaceted concept that transcends any one individual.
S4S: What is the best and what was the worst piece of advice you’ve ever been given and why?
S.V.: The best advice I’ve received is from my parents: “Honesty is the best policy.” My senior brother, Majid, encouraged me to think big and step out of my comfort zone for personal growth. It emphasizes integrity and hard work.
As for the worst advice, I can’t recall specific instances, but any advice promoting dishonesty or shortcuts is unhelpful. To my 18-year-old self, I’d say, “Be honest, never give up, and speak the truth even if your voice shakes. Reject shortcuts and prioritize honesty for lasting success.”
S4S: In the last five years, what new belief, behavior, or habit has most improved your business life?
S.V.: In the last five years, discipline and punctuality have been the most impactful qualities in my business life, particularly during my work at sea where precision and schedule adherence are crucial. Additionally, I’ve learned that effective teamwork and fostering collaboration among colleagues are essential for achieving our collective goals. Looking back on my career, the most valuable investment of my energy, time, and money was the decision to transition from a sea-based career to pursue a PhD. Despite its multifaceted challenges, this journey expanded my understanding of the maritime industry beyond operations and created opportunities to contribute to various aspects of the sector. It transformed my career, broadening my horizons significantly.
S4S: What would you like to change in the current maritime landscape and your area of expertise specifically and why?
S.V.: Collaboration among stakeholders is crucial in this complex field. I advocate for a holistic approach, considering a vessel’s entire lifecycle. A transdisciplinary approach is essential to tackle interconnected challenges. These changes are vital for industry growth and environmental preservation
The views presented hereabove are only those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of SAFETY4SEA and are for information sharing and discussion purposes only.
We in World Maritime University know Vahid as a hardworking and intelligent researcher.
Wish you all the best Vahid!