Dakota McCloy is a Subsea Robotics Project Manager in Oceaneering’s Assembly/ Maintenance Facility (AMF) in Morgan City, Louisiana.
Dakota’s career with Oceaneering began during high school when he interned part-time in the workshop, now known as AMF. A week after graduation in 2015, he accepted a full-time position as an Offshore Junior Technician working a four-weeks-on, two-weeks-off rotation schedule on vessels in the Gulf of Mexico. Within six years, he advanced to Offshore Supervisor.
Dakota’s offshore experience was invaluable to his professional growth and development.
“I learned how to build, rebuild, troubleshoot, and pilot ROVs. Operationally, I know the vehicle inside and out. I also know the topside equipment used to launch the ROV. That knowledge adds more credibility to my project management role as well as my interactions with the engineering team.”
In 2021, he transitioned back to the AMF as a Supervisor before assuming the role of Project Manager.
“Oceaneering’s commitment to employee development and career growth opportunities played a pivotal role in my journey. The company provided the support and resources necessary to reach my full potential.”
As a Project Manager, Dakota often handles up to 13 assets at once. He gathers information, builds estimates, and holds meetings with AMF personnel to detail the scope of work.
“I make sure the project stays on track and within the estimated budget. I also solve problems and minimize risks to ensure we meet project deliverables.”
The most exciting aspect of his job is learning from experts in different fields across Oceaneering’s global facilities.
“The ongoing exchange of ideas and perspectives keeps me engaged and helps me grow. I’m involved from project inception to completion. Seeing an idea become a reality, and knowing I’ve played a key role in its success is incredibly motivating and fulfilling.”
Dakota believes communication and organizational skills are key to project management career success.
“The more you keep the customer and directors updated, the better the project will go. Juggling multiple projects at one time can be overwhelming if you are not organized. Patience, persistence, and being committed to any given project will get you through from start to finish with little to no problems.”