Diving into the world of underwater acoustics

Magda Chreptowicz’s love for the ocean shows up in everything she does, whether she’s out walking her dog by the sea or managing complex offshore wind projects. With a background in marine protection and a curiosity that’s taken her from the Polish public administration to offshore projects focusing on underwater acoustics, she's found a way to turn her passion into real impact. We caught up with Magda to know more about her and what keeps her inspired.

Hi Magda, what do you do at DHI and when did you join?

Hi all, I'm Magda! I joined DHI on 1 March 2022 and what a journey it's been so far! I work as a Project Manager in the Underwater Acoustics department, where I have the unique job of diving into (sometimes quite literally!) projects focused on underwater noise and its effects on marine mammals.

Somewhere along the way, I also took flight into the world of migratory birds, helping ensure that major developments stay on course without ruffling too many feathers.

My days are a dynamic mix of collaborating with incredible teams within DHI but also externally (our partners and clients), keeping projects moving in the right direction and helping our clients find the sweet spot between progress and environmental protection. It’s a busy ride — but I love the combination of science, teamwork and knowing that we’re making a real difference out there.

What led you to a career in the offshore wind industry? 

My journey into the offshore wind industry actually began long before I joined DHI.

Earlier in my career, I worked in the Polish public administration, where I was involved in implementing the Marine Strategy Framework Directive (MSFD), with a particular focus on protecting our marine waters. That experience opened my eyes to just how fragile and vital the marine environment truly is, and how important it is to have people who are willing to advocate for it, even as industries continue to grow and evolve.

So, when the opportunity came to work on offshore projects at DHI — blending environmental protection with the dynamic world of renewable energy — it felt like a perfect fit.

For me, it’s more than just a career path; it’s about making sure that progress and responsibility go hand in hand, ensuring a healthier ocean for generations to come.

Can you share a memorable project you've been involved in and what made it special for you? 

It’s difficult to single out just one project, as each offshore wind farm project shares similarities yet bring entirely unique challenges. What truly stands out across all of them is our commitment to delivering a robust, science-based assessment of planned infrastructure, particularly regarding its impact on marine mammals and migratory birds. We rely not only on extensive monitoring data but also on cutting-edge methodologies, ensuring our evaluations remain at the forefront of industry standards.

The dynamic nature of this area constantly pushes us to stay updated with the latest science research, which often becomes a valuable inspiration and benchmark for our work.

If I were to highlight one project especially close to my heart, it would be the Marine Water Protection Program. I had the privilege of coordinating the development of this critical document during both the first and second planning cycles under the Marine Strategy Framework Directive implementation in Poland. While the action plans we developed were a significant achievement, it’s clear that the real challenge lies ahead — in the effective and measurable implementation of these initiatives, where continued commitment and innovation are crucial.

How has technology changed the way you work in offshore wind environments? And what recent discoveries or innovations have you found particularly exciting?

Technology has completely transformed the way we work, especially when it comes to understanding the complex dynamics of the offshore environment.
Today, we rely on advanced tools such as remote sensing, automated data analysis, and of course, advanced underwater noise modelling to better predict and manage impacts on marine life.
What’s particularly exciting is that we’re not just using innovation. We’re helping to drive it.

Our team has been developing and continuously enhancing the MIKE Underwater Sound Analyzer, and it’s truly been a game-changer. With the expertise of talented acousticians, geologists and marine biologists on board, we can model underwater noise faster, with greater accuracy and adapt our solutions to the specific needs of each project.

It’s incredibly rewarding to be part of a team that doesn’t just adopt the latest technologies, but actively helps to shape the future of how offshore wind projects coexist with the marine environment.

What's the best part about working at DHI?

The best part about working at DHI is, without a doubt, the people and the supportive, empowering atmosphere. From the moment I joined, I felt welcomed into a team that truly values trust, collaboration and independence.

Right from the start, my managers gave me the freedom to lead projects, contribute new ideas and shape my own professional path — and that level of trust has made all the difference. It’s incredibly motivating to know that your expertise is respected, your voice matters and that you have the space to grow and make a real impact.

For me, working at DHI isn’t just about delivering results; it’s about being part of a community where you feel inspired every day to do meaningful work, alongside people who share the same passion for making a difference.

Tell us a bit about yourself outside of work!

Outside of work, you’ll most likely find me by the sea, walking with my dog and pretending we're on some grand adventure. I’ve always been close to the water — I grew up in the Masurian Lake District, the heart of Poland’s lake country — so being near water just feels natural to me.

Not many people know that I’m also a big fan of water sports, especially sailing. One day, I’m hoping to finally get my offshore skipper’s license... and maybe sail off into the sunset (just for a weekend, though — I do enjoy my work too much to stay away for long!). There’s something about the water that keeps me energised, inspired and always dreaming a little bigger.