“I see being a woman in this industry not as a limitation, but as an opportunity to bring a different perspective, challenge outdated patterns and show that leadership is defined by competence and attitude, not gender.”
- Ionela Cardas, Hull Project Management, Damen Shipyards Galați
Can you introduce yourself? What is your role, and how did you find your way into it?
“Despite traditional expectations and the usual paths for women within Romanian culture, I chose shipbuilding. From a young age, ships fascinated me. Growing up near the Danube, I knew exactly what I wanted: to design and build yachts. I graduated from the Faculty of Naval Architecture in Galați and joined Damen Galați over eight years ago, starting in Production before moving into Engineering. For the past two and a half years, I have been working as a Project Manager. As a Project Manager, I coordinate, plan and monitor project execution to ensure delivery on time, within budget and at the required quality level. It may sound like a textbook description, but the truth is that I genuinely enjoy working every day with the team to make this happen.”
From your perspective as Hull Project Manager, what sets Amels apart in the market compared to other yacht builders?
“What stands out to me most is how deeply the Client is heard and understood. You can truly see this reflected in the yacht. Even though I am now working on my fifth Amels 80 and my second as Project Manager, every yacht is still highly customised in the details. Amels is exceptionally client-focused and versatile, with the ability to respond quickly to specific requests while maintaining very high engineering and execution standards. That combination is not easy to achieve. On top of that, Amels yachts carry a distinctive design signature, one that is elegant, confident and recognisable. I genuinely love being part of that.”
What makes the Amels 80 different from previous projects you have worked on within Damen Yachting?
“The Amels 80 represents an evolution within the Limited Editions range. From a technical perspective, it introduces a larger scale, more complex integration between steel and aluminium structures, and a higher level of outfitting complexity than projects I worked on previously.
The Amels 80 integrates advanced systems and sustainability standards. Compared to earlier yachts, this project truly pushes boundaries in design, technology and execution.”
What makes the Amels 80 a true expression of Amels’ heritage and craftsmanship?
“The Amels 80 brings together everything the brand stands for: proven engineering, robust hull construction, meticulous detailing and an uncompromising approach to quality. It carries the DNA of the Amels Limited Editions, with decades of experience in seaworthiness, structural integrity and real-world performance reflected in its proportions and lines. Refined aesthetics and the integration of interior and exterior spaces highlight the precision and care of Amels craftsmanship. Every weld, joint and interface between steel and aluminium is executed with intention, and that attention to detail defines the Amels reputation.”
Which project management challenges are unique to the Amels 80, and how do you guide the team to ensure the series fulfils its promise?
“The main challenge lies in the scale and complexity of the Amels 80 platform. As a new yacht with highly integrated systems, it requires tight coordination, strong planning discipline and proactive communication from the earliest stages. Balancing standardisation with customisation is equally critical. Each Client brings specific wishes, and managing these while protecting the platform and schedule demands clear decision-making and close alignment with engineering and production. As a new series, many processes are being refined for the first time. My role is to provide structure, clarity and momentum, supported by a close-knit team focused on delivering the best possible yacht.”
It is still rare to be a woman in this industry. How has that shaped the way you lead and collaborate?
“It has shaped me in a positive way. Being one of the few women in this environment has made me more resilient, well prepared and very clear in my communication. I learned early on that credibility comes from professionalism, consistency and results, and that forms the foundation of my leadership style. I place strong emphasis on collaboration and respect, creating an environment where trust, openness and teamwork allow everyone to feel heard and valued. I see being a woman in this industry not as a limitation, but as an opportunity to bring a different perspective, challenge outdated patterns and show that leadership is defined by competence and attitude, not gender.”
In what way do you hope your work will be experienced by the future Owner and guests on board?
“I hope they experience our work through a feeling of confidence, comfort and effortless quality. Much of what we do is not immediately visible, but it is felt, in the stability, the silence, the smooth operations and the overall sense of reliability.
If the Owner can enjoy life on board without ever thinking about the engineering behind it, then we have succeeded. Ultimately, I want them to feel that the yacht was built with care, professionalism and passion.”
How does it feel to hand over the hull to the next phase in Vlissingen, and how do you see the connection between Galați and Vlissingen come together?
“Handing over the hull is always a moment of pride. It reflects months of teamwork and problem-solving, and seeing it leave Galați in perfect condition, ready for outfitting in the Netherlands brings a strong sense of fulfilment. The connection between Galați and Vlissingen comes alive at launch. It is more than a handover; it is the merging of two cultures and areas of expertise. Galați contributes long-standing shipbuilding tradition and craftsmanship, while Vlissingen adds refinement, customisation and finishing excellence. Together, that moment symbolises the strength of Damen Yachting, bringing different locations together under one vision, one standard and shared pride, to the benefit of Amels."
How does it feel to leave your own signature on the Amels 80?
“It feels very special. My signature is not visible in a literal sense, but present in every decision, coordination moment and challenge solved with the team. It represents responsibility, care and pride.
For me, it is not about ownership, but contribution. Knowing that part of my work will travel the world, creating unforgettable experiences, is deeply rewarding. And that signature is never mine alone. Everyone in Galați leaves a piece of themselves in the yacht. My contribution is just one layer in a much bigger team story.”
