Patrick Zeitler
Charting New Depths in Business Development at The Ocean Corporation
Patrick Zeitler’s career is a testament to a life dedicated to the pursuit of excellence in the marine and commercial diving industries. As the newly appointed Director of Business Development at The Ocean Corporation, Patrick’s journey from the cold, challenging depths of diving to the strategic forefront of industry leadership encapsulates a remarkable blend of passion, experience, and vision.
Embracing the Dive: A Calling Unveiled
From his first days enduring the demanding life of a tender to mastering the art of deep-sea exploration as a junior diver, Patrick discovered his unwavering love for the diving profession. “There was no rational reason why I should have still been doing it unless I loved the job,” Patrick recalls, reflecting on the early realization that diving was not just a job but a calling—a sentiment echoed throughout his career. It was the allure of diving itself that drew him in, a passion he describes as being “programmed to be a diver,” one of the “chosen few.”
A Career Shaped by Diverse Experiences
Patrick’s professional narrative is rich, with pivotal roles ranging from hands-on underwater projects to executive leadership positions. His time with InDepth Diving Services LLC and T&T Subsea LLC, among others, is highlighted not just by his leadership but by a unique approach that equally values financial prudence, safety excellence, and the holistic well-being of his team. “Finance: Ensure all projects/business units meet their budgetary or margin requirements. Safety: Ensure that safety is prioritized at equal footing with finance,” Patrick outlines his approach, reflecting his commitment to leading teams to efficiency and success while safeguarding their safety and fostering a positive work environment.
Memorable Projects and Lifelong Learning
Patrick’s work on well intervention projects and salvage operations, particularly post-hurricanes Rita and Katrina, stand out as career highlights. “There is something really awesome about a team of divers…trying different things to seal up a barge or vessel and to see the vessel refloating is always a highlight,” he shares, capturing the thrill and satisfaction of successful collaborative efforts. Staying current with industry trends through dialogue with peers and contributing to The Maritime Executive, Patrick continually seeks to expand his knowledge and share his insights with the broader maritime community.
From Field Expertise to Educational Influence
A belief in the cyclical nature of learning and teaching drove Pat’s transition from industry practice to a focus on education and business development. “Every day in the field, we should be learning and likewise should be teaching,” Patrick asserts, emphasizing the importance of knowledge transfer within the trade. This philosophy informed his impactful approach as an instructor, where rigging techniques and diving physics became opportunities for meaningful engagement and student growth.
Looking to the Future
With the industry on the cusp of transitioning towards renewable energy installations and infrastructure development, Patrick’s foresight and experience are invaluable assets to The Ocean Corporation. His engagement with industry safety workgroups and adoption of the latest technologies in ROV and drones reflect a commitment to preparing students for the demands of tomorrow’s maritime challenges.
A Legacy of Leadership and Learning
Patrick Zeitler’s move to Director of Business Development marks a significant milestone in a career defined by a profound love for diving, a commitment to safety and operational excellence, and a forward-looking approach to industry trends. At The Ocean Corporation, Patrick’s leadership is not just about business growth but about nurturing the next generation of marine professionals equipped to navigate the evolving landscapes of the maritime industry. His story is a beacon for aspiring divers and industry veterans alike, exemplifying how passion, expertise, and a commitment to continuous learning can shape a dynamic and rewarding career path.