Ocean data collection company XOCEAN has announced the creation of 60 jobs. The news comes as the firm welcomes Heather Humphreys TD, Minister for Business, Enterprise and Innovation to celebrate the official opening of its new Technical Centre near Carlingford, Co Louth.
XOCEAN, which the Engineers Journal recently featured in an interview with Ken Mitchell, is transforming the way ocean data is collected using innovative marine robotics known as Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs). This innovative technology is designed and manufactured by the company in Ireland.
Using USVs, XOCEAN provides turnkey ocean data collection services ranging from mapping the seabed to inspecting subsea structures to monitoring the environment. The new technical centre and 24-hour control room will act as a hub for operating XOCEAN’s fleet of USVs globally.
XOCEAN’s USVs offer significant benefits including safety with operators remaining onshore; efficiency with 24/7 operations; and environmental advantages with ultra-low emissions which together lead to significant economic savings.
Eight additional vessels being added to fleet
XOCEAN is set to grow exponentially in the next 12 months, with eight additional vessels being added to the fleet. The company plans to recruit an additional 60 employees in the next year to meet increasing market demand.
XOCEAN has recently completed projects for clients such as the UK’s Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA).
Minister Heather Humphreys TD said: “I’m delighted to officially open XOCEAN’s new marine robotics technical centre near Carlingford in Co Louth which will result in the creation of 60 new jobs.
"Ireland is one of the largest maritime states in Europe and has the potential to become a global leader in the USV market and marine-tech sector. Supported by the government through Enterprise Ireland, XOCEAN is a young, but truly innovative start-up company which is offering a safe and efficient USV service with both economic and environmental efficiencies.
"This is a great example of a highly innovative Irish company based in the regions, providing a jobs boost in the local area while also making an impact in the global marine-tech sector.”
James Ives, CEO, XOCEAN, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Minister Humphreys to the opening our new Technical Centre. The next 12 months look set to be an exciting time for XOCEAN as we increase our team and our fleet of USVs to meet growing market demands.”
Jenny Melia, divisional manager, high potential start-ups, Enterprise Ireland, said: “Enterprise Ireland works closely with start-up companies to help them build scale and expand their reach in overseas markets.
"XOCEAN is a fast-growing company in the marine-tech space and is a perfect example of an Irish technology start-up with global ambition. With plans to roll out USVs in multiple sectors and markets, Enterprise Ireland looks forward to continuing to work with the XOCEAN team as it grows and expands internationally while creating jobs at home in the local region.”
Chartered engineer Ken Mitchell recently interviewed XOCEAN for the Engineers Journal. See 'How one startup is making waves in the ocean data collection services sector'.