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When your first big design task involves modifying a plate boat for a real client—with real expectations—you’re either about to sink… or swim.
That’s exactly where Jonas, CNC Marine’s newest designer, found himself.
In Episode 3 of the CNC Marine Podcast, Marsh sits down with Jonas to talk design, uni life, and what it’s really like to be thrown into the fast-paced world of aluminium boat design.
Spoiler: He’s nailing it.
From Northern Rivers to Boat Design
Jonas is a final-year industrial design student who joined CNC Marine to bring a fresh perspective to the team’s growing design department.
Originally from Lismore and now based on the Gold Coast, he was drawn to industrial design after a short stint in mechanical engineering.
“I always loved making things,” he explains. “But engineering felt too rigid. Industrial design gave me the creative side I was missing.”
What Does an Industrial Designer Do at CNC Marine?
In a world full of naval architects and performance data, industrial designers bring something else to the table—usability, aesthetics, and real-world practicality.
Jonas works alongside CNC’s head naval architect and senior designers to help shape boat models that not only perform—but make sense for the people building and using them.
From ergonomic layouts to cleaner design workflows in Rhino and AutoCAD, Jonas is learning fast—and making a real impact.
“One of the best parts of this job has been bouncing ideas around the team. Everyone here’s got a different approach and I’m learning heaps.”
“Thrown in the Deep End” with a Major Mod
After a few weeks of smaller tasks, Jonas was handed a full-blown client modification—one that kept growing as the customer added more features.
Instead of backing off, he dove straight in.
“I definitely felt out of my depth at first. But the team’s support has been unreal. It’s been the best learning curve I could’ve asked for.”
Where’s CNC Marine Heading?
Marsh and Jonas also get into the bigger picture—where CNC Marine is headed, what fuels the business, and how young designers like Jonas are shaping its future.
“We don’t want to monopolise the industry,” says Marsh. “We want to support small builders, give them world-class designs, and help bring boat building back to the local level.”
With demo boats in the works, a new design shed on the horizon, and a global network of builders forming, CNC Marine is gearing up for big things—and young designers are a key part of it.
Final Take: Passion, People, Progress
Jonas might be new, but he represents exactly where CNC Marine is going—smart, sustainable design rooted in a love for building things that last.
Whether it’s sketching adventure-ready boats or rethinking how trailers are wired, this team is passionate about what they do, and it shows.
“There’s always something happening here,” Jonas says. “It’s fast-paced, hands-on, and full of energy. I’m stoked to be part of it.”