Built for the Future: A Conversation with Robert Ekse on EBDG's Approach to Vessel Design

Innovation in vessel design requires more than good ideas. It calls for a commitment to practical solutions, long-term thinking, and deep industry experience. This is exactly what Elliott Bay Design Group (EBDG) brings to the table. With decades of experience in naval architecture and marine engineering, EBDG continues to lead the industry by combining precision, creativity, and collaboration.

In this interview, President Robert Ekse, shares how the firm is adapting to maritime trends, meeting client demands, and preparing for what comes next in the world of vessel design and technology.

Q: What defines EBDG’s approach to vessel design, and how do your services and expertise support clients throughout the lifecycle of a project?

With nearly a century of experience in marine engineering and naval architecture, our approach is rooted in helping clients keep their fleets productive, reliable, and prepared for the future. We support every phase of a vessel’s lifecycle. This includes early feasibility studies, concept development, construction oversight, and ongoing operational support. What sets us apart is our commitment to close collaboration. We work alongside our clients, align with their project goals, and help navigate the complexities that arise throughout the process. Whether we are addressing a repair, managing a retrofit, or developing a first-of-its-kind design, our focus is on delivering solutions that are practical to build and dependable to operate. In every engagement, our goal is not only to provide technical services but also to deliver long-term value and confidence on the water.

Q: What key trends and challenges are shaping vessel design in today’s maritime industry?

The maritime industry continues to face several critical challenges, including increased regulatory pressure, uncertain technology viability, and an aging fleet. These factors have made vessel design more complex and more strategic. Each client we work with brings a different set of priorities and constraints. When a client has a clear vision, we help them execute it with precision. When the path forward is less certain, we collaborate to shape a solution that supports long-term performance and sustainability. Rather than focusing on short-term trends, our team is committed to turning industry shifts into practical solutions that work in real-world conditions. That approach allows us to guide our clients with clarity and confidence.

Q: How is EBDG helping clients evaluate and adopt emerging technologies in vessel design?

As digital tools and integration technologies become more accessible, vessel owners are evaluating a wide range of options to improve performance. Many are prioritizing simplicity, maintainability, and energy efficiency, especially in light of evolving grant and funding opportunities. We are seeing a stronger emphasis on low-maintenance systems and thoughtful capital investment. Our role is to help clients sort through these options and determine which technologies truly align with their goals. In every case, we focus on balancing innovation with operational practicality. This ensures that each vessel we design delivers consistent performance and supports the long-term success of our clients’ operations.

Q: What is EBDG’s approach to exploring and integrating new technologies into your design process?

Our approach begins with staying deeply connected to the evolving maritime landscape. We attend key industry conferences, share insights through speaking engagements, and showcase our thought leadership to contribute to the broader conversation around innovation. In addition, we actively support our staff in participating in working groups and collaborative research initiatives that focus on emerging technologies. However, we understand that not every new advancement is a fit for every project. That is why we take a careful, project-specific approach to evaluating each concept. When we identify a technology that aligns with client goals and operational needs, we invest in focused research and development to explore it further. This allows us to integrate solutions that are not only forward-thinking but also practical and dependable throughout the project lifecycle.

Q: How does EBDG help clients balance cost and performance when exploring sustainable design solutions?

Clients often come to us with a strong interest in energy efficiency, but they also need to manage construction costs. These two goals do not always align naturally. High-efficiency systems can increase upfront expenses, which may not be feasible for every project. That is where our process adds value. We use clear, data-driven metrics to help clients understand where performance gains and cost constraints intersect. This allows them to make informed decisions and ensures that the final design delivers both value and functionality.

Q: What long-term impact does EBDG hope to have on the maritime industry, and how do you define your legacy in vessel design?

Rather than focusing solely on trends, we are more intentional about the direction we help shape through our work. Our priority is to support each client in reaching the solution that fits their specific needs and operating conditions. Vessel design is never a one-size-fits-all decision. It requires a collaborative, thoughtful process built around performance, purpose, and partnership. We view our role as a guide because every project is unique and requires tailored solutions. By approaching each engagement this way, we help clients move toward outcomes that are both profitable and sustainable.

When it comes to our legacy, we believe it lives within every vessel we help bring to life. Seeing a concept evolve into a fully operating vessel is one of the most rewarding aspects of our work. Each one represents not only a technical achievement, but also the trust our clients place in us and the commitment we bring to every project.

A Team of EBDG engineers on a recent ship check.

Q: What broader industry challenges are influencing how EBDG approaches future shipbuilding?

In recent years, we have observed a decline in workforce skill levels and employee tenure across domestic shipyards. This trend closely mirrors what is happening in the wider U.S. manufacturing sector. At the same time, our national fleet continues to age, which creates a growing need for more effective and sustainable approaches to shipbuilding. These shifts are prompting us to rethink how we can support future construction efforts with designs and strategies that reflect the realities of today’s labor and infrastructure constraints.

Q: How is EBDG looking beyond the maritime sector to address current challenges in shipbuilding?

As workforce capacity and skill levels continue to decline across domestic shipyards, we are exploring solutions that extend beyond traditional approaches. One area we are closely watching is modular construction, particularly how it is used in upland manufacturing and international shipbuilding. While not new, modularity is being applied in more innovative and efficient ways. For example, some shipyards fabricate small modules abroad and complete final assembly in the U.S., lowering costs and improving productivity.

Looking forward, we see potential in adapting this model within U.S.-based manufacturing environments. Controlled production facilities can offer better access to skilled labor, stronger quality assurance, and faster timelines. These approaches could play a key role in strengthening the future of American shipbuilding.

Q: How does EBDG ensure that its designs remain aligned with client needs, regulatory demands, and industry change over time?

Everything begins with listening. The maritime industry includes a broad range of vessel types, missions, and operating environments, so context matters. We take time early in the process to fully understand the client’s goals, constraints, and expectations before recommending any design approach. Throughout the project lifecycle, we maintain open communication with owners, operators, shipbuilders, and regulators to ensure alignment at every stage. Our team stays current with evolving regulations and helps clients translate complex requirements into clear, achievable design decisions. By taking a collaborative and informed approach, we ensure each vessel is built not only to meet today’s needs but also to remain flexible and effective in the future.

Q: What challenges come with implementing new technologies in vessel design, and how does EBDG ensure those innovations deliver real value?

One of the primary challenges is cost. Many emerging technologies can reduce operational expenses over time, but they often require a higher upfront investment. In many cases, the full value of the innovation is only realized when the entire vessel operation adapts to support it.

For example, automation may reduce crewing requirements, but without system-wide optimization, those savings might never be captured. Likewise, a more efficient propulsion system will only perform as intended if the crew is trained to operate it effectively.

To address these challenges, we emphasize early and ongoing conversations with all stakeholders involved. By building a clear cost-benefit model that reflects the realities of daily operations, we help clients make more informed decisions. These experiences also push us to refine our design process, strengthen communication, and ensure every solution is practical, scalable, and aligned with the people who rely on it.

The future of marine design requires more than advanced software or modern systems. It relies on thoughtful planning, strong partnerships, and a people-centered approach to innovation. Every vessel designed by EBDG reflects these principles. From concept through completion, their work emphasizes collaboration, precision, and long-term value.

As the maritime industry continues to evolve, EBDG remains committed to delivering practical solutions that stand the test of time, both in design and in the relationships they cultivate along the way.