In the corridors of Wärtsilä Japan, one name echoed through the engineering and projects departments for over two decades - Yushi Kumakura. His story is one of dedication, innovation, and unwavering commitment to advancing technology in Japan’s marine and energy sectors.
As part of our 190-year celebrations, we walk down memory lane with Yushi, reflecting on his career and some of his fond memories.
Yushi’s fascination with engine combustion technology began an illustrious 23-year career at Wärtsilä. He has always been fascinated with engine technology, and whenever he faced an obstacle, it was an opportunity for him to learn, innovate, and make a difference. He reflects that the transition from heavy fuel oil (HFO) to gas and emerging new fuels marked a significant shift in the industry.
His passion for promoting these advancements to Japanese customers strengthened Wärtsilä’s reputation in Japan, placing the company at the forefront of fuel transition technology. Even today, as the world continues to move towards cleaner energy solutions, the technology Yushi championed for decades serves as a foundation for future innovations.
Today, although he has retired, he is still involved with engines, using a chainsaw powered by a 2-stroke engine to cut firewood in his cottage.
For Yushi, the memories of his time at Wärtsilä are filled with moments of challenge and triumph. Working with demanding local customers to uncover root causes was both tough and exhilarating. These experiences motivated him and reinforced the importance of quality and precision in engineering. Through perseverance and teamwork, Yushi and his team were able to elevate standards and deliver solutions that exceeded expectations.
Throughout his career, Yushi was supported by a network of exceptional colleagues. In a company like Wärtsilä, teamwork and camaraderie are the bedrock of success. He was fortunate to have been surrounded by talented individuals who shared his vision and drive. These relationships were vital in solving the challenges that they came across, and they achieved remarkable milestones together.
What kept Yushi motivated at work was the reliability of the technology and the synergy within his team. The satisfaction derived from knowing that the solutions they created were robust and effective was unparalleled. The teamwork fostered a sense of belonging and purpose, driving Yushi and his colleagues to strive for continuous improvement. Every project undertaken was a testament to the power of collaboration and the relentless pursuit of technological excellence.
Reflecting on his experiences and the evolution of Wärtsilä, Yushi envisions a future where the company continues to lead in technological innovation. The decarbonisation challenge looms large, but with it comes the promise of new technologies and promising possibilities. Yushi believes that Wärtsilä will deftly integrate these advancements to provide the most feasible solutions to the market.
Yushi Kumakura’s story is not just about a career but the enduring legacy of innovation, teamwork, and the pursuit of excellence. His contributions have helped shape Wärtsilä’s trajectory, leaving a mark that will influence future generations.
