Sized Equipment News

Profile: Ralph Senner, Karl Senner Inc.

Karl Senner LLC is a ubiquitous figure in the Gulf of Mexico workboat and offshore industry, supplying signature propulsion brands and service for decades. Industry insiders may have noted some changes of late, specifically the slight corporate identity slide from an “Inc.” to an “LLC”, and the ascension of Ralph Senner to the lead position. MR visited with Ralph Senner for insight on the outlook ahead for the company. You have been at the helm at Karl Senner, Inc. since May of 2012. What will remain the same for you and your customers?

Q&A with Bo Norton, Telenor Satellite Services

MR: What are the top three or four factors driving your offerings to the marine business today? Norton: Maritime customers across the board want increased bandwidth that will enable IP applications — from e-mailing to Web surfing and data downloads. Commercial maritime companies are also focusing on ways to make their satellite communications at sea a "business enhancer" in order to make their ships "floating extensions" of the company's LAN or WAN. At the same time, we are also seeing a decisive move by ship management companies to cut operating costs and selecting communications solutions that they can both use as a business tool on board the vessel and a way to improve crew morale and welfare…