Geir Vikingstad Returns to Kystdesign as Mechanical Engineering Manager
29
May 2026 
Our new Mechanical Engineering Manager brings with him more than two decades of history with Kystdesign.
Vikingstad first joined Kystdesign in the spring of 2000. At the time, the company consisted of a handful of engineers, and everyone was involved in just about everything.
«We did a bit of everything back then,» he recalls.
«It was a very hands-on environment, especially when we got the contract for our first ROV design. We designed, sourced, built, and tested everything ourselves.»
A Career Closely Tied to Kystdesign
In those early years, he felt he had a lot to contribute, with his background as an auto electrician and automotive technician, as well as a Master of Science in Mechanical Engineering.
After 20 years at Kystdesign, he moved on to another company about five and a half years ago during a quieter period for us. But the connection to Kystdesign remained strong.
I’ve always felt that Kystdesign has been a big part of my career, so coming back now feels a bit like coming home.
Geir Vikingstad,
Mechanical Engineering Manager
Taking the Step into Leadership
Geir was approached about a leadership role a couple of years ago, but at the time, he didn’t see himself as a manager. Over time, however, he began to reflect on the opportunity and eventually realized he wanted to take that step.
One of the most important reasons to take on the leadership role was his familiarity with both the company and the technology. He knows the systems, many of the people, and he understands how we work.
That made Kystdesign feel like a safe place to take the next step in his career.
A Culture That Still Stands Strong
Today, Geir returns to a company that has grown significantly since he left. Kystdesign had just under 40 employees 5-6 years ago. Now, the team is much larger, with many new faces—but also several familiar ones.
What stands out most to Geir, both then and now, is the company culture.
«The best part is still the culture. There’s a strong sense of working towards a common goal as one team. That hasn’t changed,» he says.
“There’s very little separation between engineering and production. People help each other, and there’s a shared focus on quality. As an engineer, that’s exactly the kind of environment you want to be in.
Geir Vikingstad,
Mechanical Engineering Manager
Getting Up to Speed Again
In his first weeks back, his focus has been on getting to know the team, reconnecting with the technology, and building an overview of the newest developments.
Outside of work, he enjoys an active outdoor lifestyle. He spends time kayaking, freediving, and going for walks with his family. He also has a small farm that he visits as often as he can.
Now, he’s looking forward to the journey ahead, this time from a new perspective, and as the leader of our team of … mechanical engineers.
«It’s great to be back. I’m really looking forward to what’s next», says Geir Vikingstad.
We are very happy to have Geir returning to Kystdesign and look forward to the experience, perspective, and leadership he brings to the team.
