Celebrating a Decade of ScanReach: Voices from the Maritime Industry
As ScanReach celebrates 10 years in business, we hear from some of the leading members of the team about their maritime journeys. First up is Trond Liabo, VP, of Sales & Customer Success at ScanReach
From Fjords to the Future: My Journey in the Maritime Industry
My grandfather’s boat “Førdefjord I”
Trond Liabø
What inspired you to pursue a career in the maritime industry?
In western Norway, when roads were few and the sea served as our primary highway, my family operated passenger boats that ferried police, midwives, businesspeople, priests and doctors up and down the west coast—so maritime life runs in my veins one might say. My service in the Royal Norwegian Navy deepened my connection to the maritime world, and the pivotal moment came while working on my master’s thesis which centered on the pelagic fishing industry. That project opened the door to my first role with a marine electronics manufacturer in the United States. Since then, I've built a diverse career in this dynamic field, even exploring opportunities in power generation and oil & gas along the way.
What’s your favorite part of your role at ScanReach?
My favorite aspect of my role at ScanReach is the opportunity to work in a truly innovative and collaborative environment. I collaborate closely with exceptionally talented and passionate professionals who continuously push the boundaries of maritime IoT. Whether we're brainstorming creative solutions or fine-tuning our operations, I love that every project we undertake helps transform our industry for the better.
Can you share a project or achievement you’re particularly proud of?
One of my proudest achievements at ScanReach was launching our Customer Success team. By focusing on proactive customer follow-up and support, we were able to significantly boost the number of vessels registered per shipowner. This initiative not only enhanced our operational efficiency and transparency but also had a measurable, positive impact on our clients and the broader industry. Watching our efforts translate into tangible growth and improved service has been incredibly rewarding.
Visiting the “Olympic Zeus” with a team of young ScanReach colleagues.
What’s the most valuable lesson you’ve learned in your career so far?
Throughout my career, I've learned that adaptability and continuous learning are essential in a rapidly evolving work environment. Every challenge has taught me to embrace change, value diverse perspectives, and remain curious — principles that have driven both my personal growth and our company's success. Additionally, I believe in the power of mentorship: supporting emerging talent while at the same time acknowledging the seasoned professionals who paved the way for me when I started out. I think this is crucial for sustaining progress in our industry.
Installing green technology onboard “Star Kinn”.
What excites you most about the future of your industry?
What excites me most about the maritime industry's future is the convergence of cutting-edge technology and sustainability. The shift toward smarter, greener solutions is not only transforming how we operate but also reshaping global trade. At ScanReach, I’m proud to play a role in this evolution, contributing to innovations that optimize our operations while protecting our environment.