An inside look at the Tirranna installation project with Technical Project Manager, Annelie S.
Wing sail installations are complex, high-stakes operations that require precision, planning, and teamwork. In this behind-the-scenes Q&A, Technical Project Manager Annelie shares her experience overseeing her first major installation—on the vessel Tirranna—and reflects on the challenges, highlights, and lessons learned.
If you’re curious about what it takes to be a technical project manager at Oceanbird, read on.
Q: Where did your journey begin for the Tirranna wing sail installation?
Annelie:
We flew into Bremen, Germany, where each of us picked up a car—we were also acting as drivers for the installation crew. After driving an hour to Bremerhaven and checking into the hotel, we had a briefing with the night shift team to get an understanding of what to expect the next day. This was a significant project for me personally—it was my first full wing sail installation in a project management role. I felt a mix of nerves and excitement.
Q: What was the first day on site like?
Annelie:
It was a hectic start! Since it was a weekend in Germany, breakfast service started later—at 7:00 AM—but we needed to pick up the crew by 7:30, so we ate fast. After a tight schedule, we made it to the port, navigated extensive security and paperwork, and boarded the vessel.
Once onboard, we relieved the night crew, who had some challenges with an overnight storm—so we were already a bit behind schedule. Still, spirits were high, and we got straight to work installing smaller components like cylinders and fittings.
Q: What was your role during the installation process?
Annelie:
As Technical Project Manager, my main responsibility was to supervise the installation, ensure team safety, and keep an eye on the overall progress. Once we got started, my initial nerves disappeared. I felt confident, especially with the strong support from my team and manager. It was rewarding to see the coordination and communication play out in real-time.
Q: Did everything go according to plan?
Annelie:
Actually, things moved faster than expected at first. The smaller parts assembly went twice as fast as we had planned, which put us ahead of schedule. Having that kind of momentum was a great feeling.
But then came an unforeseen challenge—we discovered that the crane we were provided didn’t have the same lifting capacity as originally discussed. We needed to hoist the tilting base onto the deck, but it wasn’t sure that we would clear the foundation jigs already installed.
Q: How did the team handle the crane issue?
Annelie:
There were a few potential solutions- we chose the quickest which was to use a shorter sling. As the crane lifted the tilting base over the edge and into place—with just millimeters to spare—I felt so relieved. Then it finally slotted in perfectly. That moment was the highlight of the entire installation for me. It showed the strength of the team, the thoroughness of our planning, and the can-do attitude that defines this kind of work.
Q: Looking back, how do you reflect on the overall installation?
Annelie:
It was a success in every way that matters. We completed the installation ahead of schedule, there were no injuries, and we didn’t cause any delays to the vessel. As a first installation, I couldn’t have asked for a better experience. I had significant support from senior team members, but now I feel ready to take on more ownership in future projects.
What I love about this work is seeing the result of all the engineering, logistics, and preparation come to life. It’s incredibly fulfilling to watch a wing sail go from design to reality.
Q: What advice would you give to someone who is interested to join Oceanbird as a technical project manager?
Annelie:
Preparation is key, but flexibility is just as important. Things will go wrong—whether it’s weather, equipment, or unexpected delays. What matters is how you respond, and having a strong, experienced team around you makes all the difference.
Also, don’t underestimate how powerful it is to feel supported. Whether it’s your first project or your fiftieth, knowing your colleagues have your back is what makes these complex installations possible.
We’re hiring a Technical Project Manager!