Some engineers dream in blueprints, Nick Ayres dreams in tides, currents, and the open sea.
From the moment he set foot in the realm of marine civil construction, Nick realised this was no ordinary career. His passion for engineering isn’t just about numbers and structures—it’s about harnessing the raw power of nature, pushing boundaries, and collaborating with a team of specialists to make the impossible possible.
With a knack for problem-solving, an eye for innovation, and a deep respect for the ocean, Nick has dedicated his career not only to building projects but also to shaping how marine engineering adapts, evolves, and thrives. Nick’s journey into engineering was never about sitting behind a desk all day. He sought a career that was part science and part adventure—one that would take him outdoors, challenge his thinking, and give him with a reason to wake up excited each morning.
With a strong background in maths and physics, engineering seemed like the perfect fit. But it wasn’t until he specialised in marine engineering that he truly found his calling. Growing up in Bognor Regis, a peaceful seaside town on England’s south coast, Nick was always drawn to the water—whether it was sailing, fishing, or braving the winter winds on the shoreline. It was only natural that his career would lead him back to the place he loved most—the ocean.
Ask Nick what he loves most about his work, and he’ll tell you straight: “The people.” Marine engineering is a world of its own—a niche field where technical expertise, creative problem-solving, and teamwork come together. It’s about delivering solutions where standard designs don’t always apply, adapting to harsh and unpredictable environments, and making real, lasting impacts on communities and the environment. Plus, his office has an ocean view—not a bad perk.
Nick is heavily involved in some of the most complex and rewarding marine projects underway at Commercial Marine Group. His expertise is shaping major infrastructure developments, including:
✅ Cross River Rail – Breakfast Creek Bridge Pier 8 infills
✅ INPEX Wharf inspections
✅ Artificial reefs & marine habitat improvements
✅ Wharf ground remediation & contamination bunds
✅ Dam infrastructure upgrades
✅ Pile and wharf strengthening projects
✅ Rio Weipa marine infrastructure assessments
✅ Major tenders for Lucinda and Brisbane City Council
But beyond the technical work, mentorship and knowledge-sharing are at the heart of what Nick does. He’s passionate about nurturing the next generation of engineers, learning from their fresh perspectives and ensuring that marine engineering continues to evolve.
Success in marine engineering isn’t just about technical expertise—it’s about having the right mindset. For Nick, the important lessons learned from years in the field are straightforward: keep things simple, take action rather than overthinking, and master the essential skills that require no special talent—like communication, reliability, and effort. His enthusiasm for the future of marine engineering is fuelled by innovations in AI, composite materials, and virtual reality, all of which are changing how projects are designed and constructed. Above all, he’s dedicated to sharing his knowledge, ensuring the next generation of engineers is not only proficient but also curious, tenacious, and ready to face the unknown. His advice? Ask questions, embrace challenges, and, most importantly, enjoy the journey.
When he’s not out on the water for work, chances are Nick is still close to the ocean. Whether swimming, sailing or simply strolling along the beach, he finds relaxation in the same environment that fuels his career. He also enjoys spending time with family, engaging in local sports, and travelling to experience new cultures. When it comes to engineering marvels, his dream project would be witnessing the construction of some of history’s greatest feats—from the Hoover Dam and Suez Canal to offshore wind farm installations and Brunel’s Clifton Suspension Bridge.
With a career built on adventure, innovation, and the ever-changing nature of the sea, Nick Ayres is proof that when you follow what you love, the possibilities are endless.
