Business Details
29 Years
experience
Trusted Naval Architecture Solutions
Hockema & Whalen Associates, Inc. is a full-service naval architecture firm with decades of experience delivering innovative marine engineering solutions for commercial and government clients. Our team of seasoned professionals specializes in designing tugs, barges, fishing vessels, cargo ships, and military vessels, balancing new construction, conversions, and consulting work. We prioritize safety, efficiency, and durability while addressing owners' and builders' specific needs through advanced 3D modeling and finite element analysis. With a client list spanning major marine operators and shipyards, we combine technical expertise with collaborative problem-solving to meet project goals. Our commitment to marine safety and regulatory compliance is reflected in our work on vessels operating in harsh offshore environments.As a small business, we value partnerships with other quality-focused firms and maintain ethical standards aligned with engineering laws and regulations. Our leadership team brings extensive industry experience, including naval engineering, hull optimization, and marine electrical systems, ensuring clients receive tailored, cost-effective solutions. We invest in modern tools like computational fluid dynamics and structural analysis software to enhance vessel performance and sustainability. Our project management approach emphasizes transparency and teamwork, fostering long-term relationships with clients, shipyards, and contractors. This philosophy has sustained our reputation as a trusted partner in the marine industry since our founding.
Services
Naval Architecture
Finite Element Analysis
Hull Form Optimization
Marine Engineering
3D Modeling
Details
- Year established: 1997
Highlights and features
- We offer 30+ years of experience in commercial and military marine engineering
- Our team includes certified naval architects with expertise in harsh environment vessels
- We utilize advanced 3D modeling and finite element analysis tools for precision design
- Our engineers have regulatory compliance expertise for international shipping standards
- We maintain long-term partnerships with leading shipyards and marine operators
Services
Naval Architecture
Our naval architecture services cover complete vessel design from concept to construction. We specialize in regulated and non-regulated vessels for commercial fishing, cargo transport, and military applications. Our engineers handle stability analysis, structural design, and regulatory compliance while optimizing for safety and efficiency. Clients benefit from our expertise in harsh environment operations and 30+ years of industry experience.
Finite Element Analysis
We provide advanced finite element analysis for marine structures, including hull girder strength and localized stress points. Our 3D modeling identifies critical loading areas to optimize material use while maintaining structural integrity. This service supports complex projects requiring precise engineering solutions for deck fittings, engine foundations, and corrosion-resistant designs.
Hull Form Optimization
Our hull form optimization combines computational fluid dynamics with physical model testing to enhance vessel performance. We improve fuel efficiency, seakeeping, and maneuverability through parametric design and appendage modifications. Clients receive data-driven solutions validated by sea trials and partnerships with specialized analysis firms.
Marine Engineering
We integrate mechanical systems with structural requirements for propulsion, steering, and onboard operations. Our services include machinery arrangements, power system design, and climate control optimization. Engineers collaborate with clients to ensure operational efficiency while meeting regulatory standards for new builds and vessel retrofits.
3D Modeling
Our 3D modeling and lofting services create production-ready fabrication files using ShipConstructor and Rhino software. We deliver detailed assembly drawings, parts lists, and nested material layouts to streamline shipyard construction. This service reduces errors and improves efficiency during vessel manufacturing phases.
People
Hal Hockema
Chairman / Owner
With over 40 years in marine engineering, Hal leads design initiatives and quality assurance. He founded Hockema & Whalen Associates in 1997 after senior roles at Jensen Maritime Consultants. His expertise spans vessel design and regulatory compliance.
John Myers
President & Managing Principal
John directs new workboat design projects and teaches fishing vessel stability courses. He joined Hockema in 2005 with prior experience at naval architecture firms and the US Naval Research Laboratory.
Michael Whalen
Senior Principal
Mike specializes in hull form design and CFD analysis with 30+ years in naval architecture. He previously owned Fisker-Andersen & Whalen and contributes expertise in structural optimization and vessel arrangements.
Craig Pomeroy
Principal Naval Architect
Craig focuses on ship resistance, propulsion efficiency, and regulatory compliance. He brings 35+ years of experience from Jensen Maritime Consultants and Palmer Johnson Yachts to Hockema's complex design projects.
Rick Hunt
Principal Projects Manager
Rick manages projects with 20 years in marine engineering and a retired US Coast Guard command background. His expertise includes regulatory compliance and shipyard collaboration for construction phases.
Questions
What types of vessels does Hockema Group design?
We design tugs, barges, fishing vessels, cargo ships, workboats, passenger vessels, and military ships with expertise in both new builds and vessel conversions.
Do you handle international regulatory compliance?
Yes, our engineers have extensive experience with international maritime regulations and classification society requirements for commercial and government vessels.
What analysis tools do you use for structural design?
We employ finite element analysis (FEA) software for hull strength assessment, localized structural verification, and corrosion performance prediction to optimize vessel durability.
Can you assist with vessel efficiency improvements?
Yes, our hull form optimization services use computational fluid dynamics and model testing to enhance fuel efficiency and seakeeping performance for existing and new vessels.
What construction support services are available?
We provide 3D modeling, lofting services, and production drawings with parts lists to streamline fabrication and assembly processes for shipyards.
Do you offer marine electrical engineering services?
Yes, our team designs complex electrical systems for modern vessels including propulsion, power conversion, and integrated monitoring systems for commercial applications.
