Kristine Carjova joined Estonian Maritime Academy’s Maritime Transport Research Group as a Senior Researcher in April 2024. Her professional journey embodies a remarkable evolution within the maritime industry, marked by her transition from commanding ships to leading academic institutions and at the Estonian Maritime Academy. With a multifaceted background encompassing practical sea experience, academic leadership, and a fervent commitment to research, Carjova stands at the forefront of innovation in maritime transport.
Experience:
- Rector of Latvian Maritime Academy
- From research assistant to assistant professor and head of department of Aircraft Theory and Structure at Riga Technical University
- Captain of Watch on ASD tug Castor at AS PKL Flote
- 3rd officer at Latvian Shipping Company
Carjova's career trajectory began on the Baltic Sea, where she navigated the waters as a captain, gaining invaluable insights into the intricacies of maritime operations. However, her thirst for knowledge and intellectual curiosity propelled her towards academia, leading her to pursue advanced studies while continuing to explore the technological and structural facets of both aviation and maritime transport.
Her tenure as rector of the Latvian Maritime Academy provided a comprehensive understanding of the administrative challenges and opportunities within maritime education. Yet, amidst the demands of leadership, Carjova remained steadfast in her dedication to research, recognizing its pivotal role in shaping the future of the maritime industry.
The transition from a leadership role in maritime education to a senior researcher position at the Estonian Maritime Academy was motivated by Carjova's desire to rekindle her passion for research. Eager to delve deeper into academic inquiry and innovation, she seized the opportunity to join the maritime transport research group, where she could leverage her practical experience as a captain to inform and enrich her research endeavors.
Drawing upon her extensive managerial experience at sea, Carjova approaches the challenges of maritime transport research with a holistic perspective, recognizing the interconnectedness of technical, managerial, and societal factors. She emphasizes the importance of interdisciplinary collaboration within her research team, fostering a dynamic environment where ideas are exchanged, and innovations are born.
Identifying the pressing challenges facing the maritime industry, Carjova underscores the urgent need for innovation and adaptation in response to evolving environmental, political, and economic landscapes. With a keen focus on sustainability and efficiency, she envisions her research as a catalyst for transformative change, driving industry-wide advancements in technology and practices.
As academia plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of the maritime industry, Carjova is committed to preparing the next generation of maritime professionals for the challenges and opportunities ahead. She emphasizes the importance of staying abreast of digitalization and technological advancements, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in a rapidly evolving landscape.
In her role as a senior researcher at the Estonian Maritime Academy, Carjova's goals are ambitious yet focused. She is dedicated to leading impactful research projects, such as the Baltic Fit Project, that not only enhance the academy's reputation but also contribute to Estonia's prominence in the global maritime community. With her unwavering passion for research and her wealth of experience, Carjova is poised to make significant contributions to the field of maritime transport, driving innovation, and sustainability forward into a new era.