Virgilio So is a Senior Designer and Naval Architect with extensive experience in designing complex structures for the oil and gas, marine, and energy industries. He has worked for various companies, including TAI Engineers LLC, SBM Offshore, and Gibbs & Cox, Inc., and has contributed to significant projects such as offshore platform jackets and US Navy vessels.
Work at TAI Engineers LLC
Currently, Virgilio So serves as a Senior Designer - Naval Architect at TAI Engineers LLC. He has held this position since 2022, contributing to various projects in the United States. His role involves applying his expertise in naval architecture to design complex structures, particularly in the marine and energy sectors.
Previous Experience in Naval Architecture
Virgilio So has a diverse background in naval architecture, having worked at several notable companies. He was a Senior Checker at JB Long Inc from 2004 to 2006, and later served as a Senior Designer at SBM Offshore from 2008 to 2016. He also worked at Gibbs & Cox, Inc. as a Senior Designer from 2020 to 2022, and held various design roles at Exterran, NATCO Group, and Pacific Coast Detailing.
Education and Expertise
Virgilio So earned a Bachelor’s Degree in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering from NAMEI Polytechnic Institute. His education laid the foundation for his extensive career in designing complex structures for the oil and gas, marine, and energy industries. He specializes in the design of catenary anchor leg mooring buoys and gas compression skid packages.
Major Projects and Contributions
Throughout his career, Virgilio So has been involved in significant projects, including the design of offshore platform jackets and drilling rig refurbishment. He has contributed to the conversion of floating production storage and offloading vessels, as well as the design of US Navy vessels. His work also includes the design of pressure vessels, commercial and public buildings, and oil storage tank farms.
Long-term Career in Engineering
Virgilio So has over three decades of experience in the engineering field, beginning his career in 1985 at Maritime Industrial Services (MIS) as a Project Coordinator/Lead Engineer. His extensive experience spans various roles and responsibilities, showcasing his commitment to the naval architecture profession.