Exploring Careers in the Blue Economy: Interview with Pat González (A Bordo)
The Blue Economy offers a diverse range of career paths, from marine biology to sustainable business initiatives. To shed light on these opportunities, we’re launching a series of interviews with professionals who have carved out unique roles in this sector. Through their stories, we’ll explore the skills, challenges, and opportunities shaping careers in the blue sectors—offering valuable insights for those looking to make a difference in the ocean economy.
Our first guest is Pat González, Founder and CEO of A Bordo, a company dedicated to sustainable marine initiatives. With a strong background in the Blue Economy, Pat shares insights into their journey, the challenges faced, and the future of this dynamic field.
Meet Pat González
- Current Role: Founder & CEO, A Bordo
- Industry: Blue Economy, Corporate Innovation & Living Labs
What inspired you to pursue a career in the Blue Economy?
Pat’s passion began with a deep connection to the ocean, which significantly evolved to align perfectly with innovation and digital transformation. "What truly inspired me was realizing the immense power of the sea to provide us with a space for disconnection from our daily routines, relaxation, and deep self-connection. The way sailing parallels the business world—making decisions, navigating uncertainty with the waves and wind, having a clear course and a strong crew—mirrors the challenges organizations face. Having spent years designing Living Labs and multi-stakeholder co-creation systems, I recognized that the sea and the Blue Economy were extraordinary tools to drive organizational and professional development for organizations of all sectors."
A Day in the Life
Pat’s role involves leading strategic innovation projects, integrating disruptive methodologies and technologies like Artificial Intelligence, Blockchain, Virtual Reality or IoT. She designs executive training programs and immersive experiences that empower professionals and teams looking for a regenerative triple impact (environmental, economic and social).
A typical day for Pat involves strategic meetings, managing co-creation processes, coordinating innovation projects, engaging stakeholders from business, academia, and public administration, and overseeing Living Labs to promote the testing of solutions in real environments.
The Exciting and Challenging Aspects of the Job
Excitement for Pat comes from seeing innovative solutions tested and validated in real environments, specially in ports and marine ecosystems, generating tangible impacts for businesses and communities.
However, coordinating multiple stakeholders and navigating complex bureaucratic and regulatory landscapes presents significant challenges.
One particularly memorable experience was leading international groups of women entrepreneurs in European projects such as The Break Fellowship, addressing real challenges of the Blue Economy across different ports in Catalonia. “This initiative was especially inspiring because it brought together talented women from various backgrounds to develop solutions for sustainable marine challenges. Seeing their ideas take shape and contribute to meaningful change was extremely fulfilling.”
Key Skills for Success
Pat emphasizes the importance of technical and soft skills:
- Technical Skills: Expertise in digital technologies (AI, IoT, blockchain), strategic business design, complex project management, sustainability and regenerative practices, and maritime logistics.
- Soft Skills: Leadership, adaptability, effective communication, and the ability to foster co-creation among diverse stakeholders.
Work-Life Balance & Career Satisfaction
Pat expresses great satisfaction with their career, highlighting a good work-life balance and fair compensation. “I’m very satisfied with my salary and work conditions. It reflects my skills, experience, and the value I bring to the industry. I also have enough time off to recharge, which is crucial in such a demanding field.”
Future Outlook: Where is the Industry Heading?
Looking ahead, Pat sees exciting developments in the Blue Economy. “In the next 10 years, we’ll see greater integration of technology in marine conservation, including AI-driven monitoring systems and sustainable aquaculture innovations. More companies will adopt circular economy models, reducing waste and increasing efficiency in ocean-based industries. I foresee my profession evolving significantly towards greater integration of digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, blockchain, and virtual reality within maritime and port management practices. Additionally, I believe we'll see more collaborative roles bridging academia, industry, and policy-making to foster innovation and address global maritime challenges.”
Career Advice for Aspiring Professionals
“I would tell my younger self to fully trust her instincts and embrace challenges as opportunities for growth. Every setback is a lesson, and networking is invaluable—surround yourself with people who inspire and push you to grow.”
Follow Pat’s Work
Want to learn more about Pat’s initiatives? Follow their work at:
https://www.linkedin.com/in/patgg/
https://www.instagram.com/pat_a_bordo/
Stay tuned for more inspiring interviews with professionals shaping the future of the Blue Economy!
📢 Know someone with an exciting career in marine sciences or the Blue Economy? Let us know—we’d love to feature them!
