World At Sea
Sea to Strategy: Meet the marine Engineer Brijmohan Negi
Brijmohan Negi
From the engine room’s blazing 45°C heat to the leadership corridors of MOL, Brijmohan Negi’s journey is defined by grit, resilience, and the craft of a marine engineer. For over 15 years at sea, he kept vessels running as the heartbeat of the ship, solving problems, enduring storms, and carrying lessons that today guide his leadership on shore.
01
How did your journey in this field begin?
I grew up in Mumbai and studied at Kendriya Vidyalaya. My father served in the Indian Navy, and I initially wanted to follow his path, but I was rejected because of my eyesight. While pursuing my BSc, I came across a newspaper advertisement for a four year Marine Engineering course . I applied, was selected, and soon joined the Shipping Corporation of India. That was the beginning of my life at sea as a marine engineer.
02
Did you step into marine engineering with a clear plan, or was it more of a leap of faith?
It was very much a leap of faith. At that time, I had little exposure to career options beyond the traditional paths. Even after scoring a good percentage in Class 12, I was unsure of the direction to take. When the opportunity for marine engineering appeared, I simply took it, and it turned out to be the defining choice of my life.
03
What were your first experiences at sea like?
I joined as a 5th engineer and, within days, was onboard my first vessel. My first tenure lasted 15 months. The engine room became my world, with intense heat, constant machinery, and endless learning. It was tough, but it built resilience. At night, I would step onto the deck, sit quietly, and let the sea breeze remind me why the struggle was worth it.
04
Did you face difficult moments?
Yes, the South China Sea during rough weather stands out. For three days, the ship rolled heavily, the cook could barely prepare one dish a day, and most of us were seasick. But the engines still needed attention, and duty had to go on. Experiences like these taught me endurance, deliver under pressure, and skills every engineer must carry.
05
What did you enjoy most about life at sea?
The pride of being a marine engineer. When you repair a system or solve a breakdown, you feel the immediate impact of your work. It gave me confidence, discipline, and a sense of ownership. I also valued the exposure to different countries and cultures, and the joy of sailing with my family a few times, like watching my daughter’s excitement as she spotted dolphins from the bow.
06
You were among the first Indians in LNG shipping. How did that happen?
After working on bulk carriers, oil tankers, and product tankers, I moved into LNG in 2003. I earned a dual license in steam and motor which required clearing more exams but also brought greater responsibility. Being part of LNG shipping’s early phase in India was a proud moment in my career as a marine engineer.
07
What made you transition from ship to shore?
It was about growth and new challenges. After 15 years at sea, I wanted to explore leadership onshore and spend more time with my family. The sea had shaped me, but it was time to apply those lessons in a new way.
08
Do you miss sailing?
I miss the rhythm of the sea, the silence on deck at night, the feeling of freedom. But I have adapted. The sea will always be part of me, even if I am no longer sailing daily.
09
What lessons from sea life do you carry into office leadership today?
As a marine engineer, I learned that discipline and ownership are non-negotiable. You repeat processes until they are perfected. You solve problems with the resources at hand. And when you take responsibility, you give it everything. These values continue to guide me in my leadership role at MOL.
10
What message would you share with young people considering this career?
Marine engineering is not just about machines, it is about resilience, humility, and problem solving. It teaches you to respect resources, value teamwork, and give your best. My advice is simple: invest fully in this career, and it will give back more than you expect.
11
If not this career, what path would you have chosen?
I have always believed in adapting to circumstances and making the most of opportunities. Marine engineering found me, and I gave it my all. If life had taken me elsewhere, I would have approached it with the same spirit.
