Port Profiles: Aleksandra Naprawska
Meet Aleksandra Naprawska, Port of Aberdeen's Civil Engineer who joined the port in November 2020.
Engineering excellence
As a Civil Engineer at Port of Aberdeen, Aleksandra plays an important role in maintaining and enhancing the port’s infrastructure. Her work spans from inspecting small infrastructure repairs to overseeing installation of brand new infrastructure within some of the older quays, and working collaboratively with the port’s Maintenance, Operations, SHEQ, and Marine Departments. Currently, she manages two ship-to-shore projects – one introducing a new system, the other repurposing an existing one.
Liaising with contractors, ensuring compliance, issuing permits, and conducting inspections are key aspects of her role. She also contributes to hydrographic surveys during annual dredging campaigns, supporting the port’s long-term functionality.
From architecture to engineering
Initially aspiring to be an architect, Aleksandra shifted towards civil engineering for its hands-on approach. After earning a master’s in civil engineering (structural & environmental) from the University of Aberdeen, she joined the port as a Graduate Engineer.
Drawn to the role by the ambitious South Harbour expansion project and the rich history of North Harbour, her experience at the port has deepened her appreciation for the complexities of maintaining infrastructure above and below the waterline.
Outside of work, Aleksandra enjoys exploring with her partner and their dog, spending time with family, reading, and baking.
Building a sustainable future
Aleksandra thrives on the variety of projects, particularly those that contribute to the port’s Net Zero 2040 goals. She enjoys the challenge of introducing new infrastructure that will benefit both the present and future of the port.
However, working in such a dynamic environment comes with its challenges. Unexpected issues and tight deadlines often demand quick thinking, and effective communication with departments, port users, and stakeholders is crucial. Last-minute changes can arise, requiring rapid decision-making to keep projects on track.
Her experience during the South Harbour expansion project strengthened her ability to manage high-pressure situations, equipping her with the skills needed to navigate the complexities of port operations.
