Last Updated on February 13, 2025 by PALFINGER
At PALFINGER, we believe in more than just providing exceptional products and services. We believe in the individuals who shape and contribute to our success. Faces of PALFINGER MARINE is a blog series highlighting the diverse talents and perspectives of our colleagues across roles and locations. For our latest edition, we sat down for a chat with Florida-based Service Coordinator Leigh Lozano. Join us for a deep dive into the world of cruise vessel maintenance and repair.
A SURPRISING START IN THE INDUSTRY
It’s safe to say that Leigh herself was initially somewhat surprised that her path led her into the maritime technology industry. “I hold a bachelor’s degree in government and psychology, as well as a master’s degree in secondary education. My CV certainly sticks out a little at PALFINGER MARINE,” she smiles. Leigh was introduced to the world of vessel maintenance and repair when her husband launched a successful fiberglass repair business in Florida. “I initially took over the accounting and coordination of the company, but it evolved fairly quickly,” she recalls. Five years after its foundation, the enterprise was subcontracted by lifesaving appliance service providers to conduct fiberglass repairs to lifeboats. “Our track record was excellent, so we were approached and acquired by Schat Harding, which was, in turn, subsequently acquired by PALFINGER. And here we are,” Leigh laughs.
A HUGE (YET REWARDING) TASK
Our branch in Florida is the main hub of the PALFINGER MARINE cruise segment for the Americas region. “As a Service Coordinator, I’m currently acting as the key account manager for three major cruise lines: Royal Caribbean Group, Holland America Line, and Windstar Cruises. In that capacity, my duties also include scheduling and summarizing of all service jobs within the Florida operation,” Leigh explains.
My job is challenging, fast-paced, and demanding.
Given the amount of work needed to service even a single cruise ship, that’s quite a task. When asked to illustrate the scope, she recalls: “The spring dry dock season last year was unusually short. We had to service the equipment on seven cruise ships in just 61 days without compromising on quality. We had dry docks in Singapore, the Bahamas, Spain, and France. In total, 135 units – including lifeboats, rescue boats, tenders, life rafts, davits, and winches – were refurbished. It wouldn’t have been possible without help from our dedicated sister offices in Dubai, Spain, Germany, and Italy.”
RISING THROUGH NEW PERSPECTIVES
The nature of Leigh’s work is inherently exciting, but was there an experience that stuck out as particularly memorable? “Last fall, I had my first opportunity to step into the shoes of our service technicians – dedicated professionals who leave home for months at a time, moving from project to project,” Leigh recalls. “Over several weeks, I had the chance to assist with four different vessels. The experience was exhausting and stressful, but seeing the results was incredibly rewarding and gave me a profound appreciation for our service technicians. In my usual role, I focus on coordinating many moving parts, but witnessing the entire process firsthand – from start to finish within the given timeframes and conditions was truly invaluable.”
Some impressions of the fall 2024 dry dock season:
PAVING THE WAY FOR WOMEN IN THE MARITIME INDUSTRY
Leigh acknowledges that the maritime industry remains male-dominated, which comes with its own set of challenges: “It’s incredibly tough, you know? Most customers tend to dismiss women unless they’re in administrative roles. I have invested countless hours in learning as much as I can about this industry, and I’m immensely proud that I have an opportunity to help change this perception.” PALFINGER is equally keen to provide a platform for change. “It’s been exciting to see how the company has opened an increasing number of opportunities for women. Today, I work with two female operations managers daily. This proves that PALFINGER MARINE truly is a company with a vision for the future.”
HEADING INTO AN EXCITING FUTURE
Looking ahead, Leigh is excited about what the future holds for the company. “I’m probably most excited about furthering our strong relationship with Royal Caribbean Group and their fascinating vessels. It does fill me with pride to see those magnificent ships sail out with our equipment on board,” she says. Until then, Leigh will pass the time by settling down with a fiction novel or spending time with her two teenage sons. “It can be difficult to find the right balance between work and private life in an industry that operates 24 hours per day, every day of the year. Yet, that makes both aspects even more rewarding,” she adds. We certainly hope Leigh will experience many more rewarding days at PALFINGER MARINE.
Eager to find out more about the career path of other PALFINGER MARINE employees? Keep an eye open for the next edition of Faces of PALFINGER MARINE right here.