Geocean meets the talents of tomorrow: a commitment to the future of the maritime sector

On 27 March, Geocean was pleased to take part in the 12th edition of the SME – Engineering Graduate Schools Forum, held on the Arts et Métiers campus in Aix-en-Provence. This annual event brings together innovative companies and future engineers from the Southern Region of France. More than a networking opportunity, this intergenerational meeting was a chance to present our core expertise—but above all, to share a vision, a mission, and a passion: designing the sustainable maritime infrastructure of tomorrow.

Inspiring the Next Generation to Build the Future

At Geocean, we are deeply committed to the belief that engaging with young talent is crucial to the longevity of our sector. Why? Because our projects are complex, demanding, and innovative—they require inquisitive minds, committed spirits, and agile thinking. Attending such forums is more than just a CV exchange: it is about sharing our culture and highlighting a profession that is still too little known, yet vital to the global energy transition.

At the Geocean stand, students discovered a world at the crossroads of engineering, the sea, and human endeavour. A realm where each project is a technical, logistical, and human challenge—often undertaken in extreme conditions and remote regions.

Showcasing Unique Expertise in Service of the Planet

Geocean is no ordinary company. For over 40 years, we have been designing and delivering complex, bespoke maritime projects: offshore gas terminals, desalination systems, marine heating and cooling solutions, subsea pipeline installations, and more. Our infrastructures help transport cleaner energy—such as liquefied natural gas (LNG)—or make water accessible, notably through desalination.

Our ambition is clear and resolute: to play an active role in the energy transition by offering sustainable solutions that address the world’s most urgent needs, particularly in developing countries or isolated areas. This mission is underpinned by strong values: courage, solidarity, humility—and an unwavering passion for the sea.

Young Engineers at the Heart of a Global Challenge

The maritime sector, particularly in offshore infrastructure roles, still suffers from a lack of visibility among young engineers. Yet the challenges we face—whether energy-related, environmental, or human—demand a new generation that is well-trained, resilient, and motivated.

Participating in the SME – Grandes Écoles Forum helps bridge the gap between academia and real-world realities. The conversations were rich, and the questions numerous: “How do you lay a pipeline at a depth of 40 metres?”, “What role does innovation play in your projects?”, “What profiles are you looking to recruit?” These queries show that interest is alive—but that education remains key.

A Human-Scale Company within a Global Group

As part of VINCI Construction Grands Projets, Geocean has retained the DNA of its origins: an agile, close-knit company where every team member matters. This distinctive positioning enables us to offer young recruits an environment where learning is rapid, responsibility is introduced early, and each assignment has a direct impact on local communities.

Our projects, spanning West Africa, Bangladesh, and Germany, demonstrate our ability to operate in challenging conditions and our commitment to improving people’s lives in a sustainable manner.

Towards a New Generation of Maritime Engineers

Through our involvement in these forums, Geocean seeks to spark new vocations. The maritime sector is undergoing a profound transformation, driven by the energy transition, the development of alternative resources such as hydrogen or ammonia, and the growing need for potable water in a warming world. It is an exciting field of innovation, where engineering becomes a force for positive impact.

Through engagements like the one in Aix-en-Provence, we aim to demonstrate that one can build a career in maritime infrastructure while acting in the best interest of the planet. This is not only our corporate responsibility—it is a wager on the future. For without youth, there is no innovation; and without innovation, there can be no transition.