SEAMOR Marine was proud to welcome Ian Praetzel, a Mechanical Product Design co-op student from the University of Waterloo to our product design team for the past four months. Throughout his time with us, Ian made significant contributions to a number of technical projects, bringing strong analytical thinking, a collaborative spirit, and a passion for marine technology that enriched our product development efforts.
A notable project of Ian’s co-op term was his work on the design and development of a new, higher-power, brushless thruster. A project that challenged him to apply a wide array of skills. From thermal and structural analysis to tolerance stack-up, design for manufacturability, and assembly considerations, Ian approached each element with precision and dedication. His thoughtful, iterative design process combined software simulations like Finite Element Analysis (FEA) with hands-on calculations to ensure optimal performance under deep-sea conditions. As Mike Fioretti noted, “Ian strikes a balance between meticulous detail and swift iterations, playing a big role in meeting technical requirements and timelines on our new product development roadmap.”
Ian also played a key role in propeller and nozzle R&D, exploring new geometries and profiles through experimental testing. This project, which aligned closely with his personal interest in fluid dynamics, allowed him to develop an even deeper understanding of the mechanics of underwater propulsion systems. His work will positively influence the thrust capabilities and efficiency of future SEAMOR ROVs.
What set Ian apart wasn’t just his technical skill, but his collaborative mindset. Throughout his term, he emphasized the importance of open communication within the product development team, noting how shared problem-solving and frequent design discussions elevated the quality of the final product. At SEAMOR, we believe in the strength of teamwork, and Ian seamlessly fit into that culture—both offering and receiving feedback to push designs forward.
Ian’s contributions extended beyond just technical performance. He brought with him a sense of wonder for the underwater world, shaped by childhood fascination with ocean exploration. His first experience piloting an ROV, where he discovered the vibrancy of life beneath a dock, was a moment he described as “stunningly beautiful”—a powerful reminder of why we do what we do.
As he wraps up his co-op term, Ian leaves behind designs that will shape the next generation of SEAMOR products. We are incredibly grateful for Ian’s hard work, thoughtful design approach, and positive attitude.
We wish Ian all the best as he continues his studies and career, and we’re excited to see where his journey takes him next.