By Joseph acosta
Regional Practice Leader
Marine/Coastal
Marine engineering is often associated with coastal structures such as docks, piers, and seawalls, which are visible elements that serve as the interface between land and water. However, the scope and impact of the discipline extend well beyond the shoreline. From energy infrastructure to transportation systems and environmental restoration, marine engineers and certified engineer divers operate in increasingly diverse and complex environments. At KCI, our marine engineering team brings together technical expertise and hands-on field experience to deliver comprehensive solutions above and below the waterline.
Diverse Applications Across Industries
Marine engineering plays a critical role in supporting essential infrastructure. While traditional applications such as waterfront terminals and bulkhead design remain foundational, this work frequently extends into less conventional areas. Marine engineers are engaged in projects involving:
- Transportation infrastructure, including bridge inspections, scour assessments, and ferry terminal rehabilitation
- Power and utilities, such as intake and outfall systems for energy generation and water treatment facilities
- Environmental initiatives, including shoreline stabilization, habitat restoration, and regulatory compliance for sensitive ecosystems
- Defense and security, with services supporting U.S. Navy and Coast Guard facilities, shipyards, and port security infrastructure
- Commercial and recreational development, encompassing marina design, floating structures, and waterfront access planning
- Academic and athletic institutions, supporting waterfront campus development, boathouse facilities, and athletic docks for rowing and sailing programs
Due to a changing climate and the inevitable aging of preexisting infrastructure, the demand for versatile, modernized marine solutions has only continued to grow.
Technical Excellence in Demanding Conditions
Marine engineers routinely operate in environments characterized by dynamic forces such as tidal changes, current loads, vessel impacts, and corrosion. Designing for such variables requires a robust understanding of structural behavior in aquatic conditions, as well as the ability to coordinate with other disciplines such as geotechnical engineering, environmental science, and construction management. Whether rehabilitating aging infrastructure or designing new waterfront assets, our focus remains on durability, regulatory compliance, and long-term performance.
Applying advanced analysis methods and materials serves to enhance structural resilience, prolong service life, and improve safety. At KCI, our team applied these principles to engineer the world’s first variable-ballast floating wetland for the National Aquarium in Baltimore’s Inner Harbor, using advanced hydraulic modeling and innovative design to improve harbor ecology and resilience.
Supporting Resilient Coastal Infrastructure
As coastal communities face increasing risks from sea level rise, storm surge, and aging infrastructure, the role of marine engineering is becoming more critical. Marine teams often contribute to initiatives that enhance shoreline resilience, improve environmental sustainability, and strengthen infrastructure reliability.
For example, our work on the $11 million SUNY Maritime College design project included a phased approach that began with underwater and above water inspection services, a structural and load rating analysis of the Main Pier, and rehabilitation design of the Pier. KCI then designed new sheet pile bulkheads around the campus, performed an environmental wave study for the Pier and Boat Basin, and provided a 30-year master plan.
We understand the unique requirements of working in marine environments and approach each project with a focus on safety, efficiency, and technical rigor. Our ability to engineer and inspect in-house allows us to adapt quickly, manage complexity, and deliver solutions that meet both functional and environmental goals.
The Future of Marine Engineering
Marine engineering is far more than dock design; it is a sophisticated, multi-sector discipline that enables critical infrastructure across diverse settings. As KCI’s marine engineers and certified divers complete work, we provide expertise to solve problems of every size and complexity with integrated solutions that extend well beyond the breakwater.
To learn more about how our underwater experts can support your projects, visit our Marine & Coastal services page.