Dr.Burak Gökalp
Director
Gölcük,Kocaeli
Summary
Senior executive with over 28 years of experience in shipbuilding, naval platforms, and industrial systems, specializing in leadership of complex defense and infrastructure projects.
Overview
26
26
years of professional experience
3
3
Certifications
2
2
Languages
Work History
Director, Planning, Estimating & Design
Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command
06.2020 - 09.2023
- Led lifecycle management of surface and submarine platforms, overseeing 200 engineers.
- Managed $10M OPEX and $5M CAPEX budgets; enhanced preventive maintenance systems, saving $1.5M annually.
- Directed Türkiye’s first MEKO-class frigate modernization project.
- Led SAP-based supply chain transformation to modernize naval logistics.
- Launched a national material localization program to reduce foreign dependence.
- Coordinated international training for foreign naval engineers.
Manager, Submarine, Surface Ship Project
Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command
03.2018 - 06.2020
- Oversaw construction of three submarines and led strategic program development.
- Contributed to the founding of ASFAT Inc. and Türkiye’s Directorate of Shipyards.
- Drafted long-term submarine program strategies and contracts at national level.
Manager, Ship Repair
Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command
01.2013 - 03.2018
- Managed maintenance of 11 submarines, 16 frigates, and 2 tankers.
- Supervised 450 personnel across propulsion, safety, and mechanical repair divisions.
- Directed dry dock operations and infrastructure upgrades.
- Implemented cost-saving initiatives recognized by external audits.
- Enforced compliance with occupational health and safety standards.
Officer, Surface Ships
Naval Force
08.1997 - 01.2013
- Maintained propulsion systems (boilers, diesel engines, auxiliary systems).
- Served as Assistant to Chief Engineer onboard naval vessels.
- Led QA efforts and prepared technical documentation.
- Mentored junior engineers in mechanical systems.
- Delivered customized engineering solutions for operational efficiency.
Education
PhD - Mechanical Engineering
Kocaeli University
Türkiye09.2009
MSc - Mechanical Engineering
Kocaeli University
Türkiye09.2005
BSc - Mechanical Engineering
National Defense University
Istanbul08.1997
Skills
Strategic Planning: Expert in strategic planning and execution for complex defense and industrial projects
Program Management: Extensive experience in managing defense contracts and multi-million-dollar programs
Budget Oversight: Skilled in managing OPEX and CAPEX budgets, with proven cost optimization strategies
Operational Excellence: Proficient in lean systems and operational excellence initiatives
ERP Systems: Experienced with SAP and IFS ERP systems implementation and management
EPC Project Delivery: Knowledgeable in EPC project delivery and industrial digitalization processes
Technology Transfer: Expertise in technology transfer and material localization programs
Naval Platform Engineering: In-depth knowledge of surface and submarine naval platform engineering
Sustainability: Focused on sustainability and renewable marine fuels innovations
Leadership: Demonstrated leadership and cross-functional team management of large personnel groups
Certification
Derince Command Center, LM2500 Gas Turbine Systems May-Jun 2004
Accomplishments
- Multiple TÜBİTAK Awards (2011–2016) for innovation in marine fuels and biodiesel.
• Recognized for multimillion-dollar cost-saving initiatives across naval shipyard operations.
Timeline
Director, Planning, Estimating & Design
Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command
06.2020 - 09.2023
Manager, Submarine, Surface Ship Project
Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command
03.2018 - 06.2020
Manager, Ship Repair
Gölcük Naval Shipyard Command
01.2013 - 03.2018
Derince Command Center, LM2500 Gas Turbine Systems May-Jun 2004
05-2004
Derince Command Center, Advanced Machinery & Subsystems Specialization May-Jun 2004
05-2004
Derince Command Center, Naval Damage Control & Safety Systems May-Jun 2004
05-2004
Officer, Surface Ships
Naval Force
08.1997 - 01.2013
PhD - Mechanical Engineering
Kocaeli University
MSc - Mechanical Engineering
Kocaeli University
BSc - Mechanical Engineering
National Defense University