Engineering the Future: Marius Gafițoi’s Journey to Leading the Design Center in Bucharest at DB Engineering & Consulting

Marius Gafițoi’s career is marked by dedication, versatility, and a relentless drive to advance railway infrastructure. Starting as a Railway Track Engineer in 2008, Marius has developed a deep expertise across every aspect of railway engineering—from design and implementation to maintenance. Today, as Director of the Design Center in Bucharest, his journey reflects a commitment to both technical precision and visionary leadership.

A Career Built on Multidisciplinary Experience and Innovation

“I started my career with a strong foundation in railway engineering, working hands-on with tracks and infrastructure,” Marius recalls. “Joining DB Engineering & Consulting was a natural step, given the company’s global reputation for innovation and excellence in infrastructure.” Over the years, he expanded his expertise, engaging with multidisciplinary fields such as bridge engineering, safety and signaling, and telecommunications. “Each project allowed me to deepen my understanding and sharpen my skills, which ultimately prepared me for my current role.”

As the Director of the Bucharest Design Center, Marius is passionate about leading a talented team dedicated to innovating and optimizing railway projects around the world. “This role combines my technical experience with the opportunity to inspire and guide others in shaping sustainable infrastructure solutions.”

What Sets DB Engineering & Consulting Apart?

Marius Gafitoi believes that DB E&C stands out for its uniquely collaborative and international approach. “Our work environment is both global and cohesive,” he explains. “With Design Centers in Romania and India, DB E&C strategically unites specialized teams to tackle complex infrastructure projects efficiently and at scale.” This integration allows DB E&C to adopt cutting-edge tools like Building Information Modeling (BIM) and CAD, fostering a culture of continuous technical innovation. “These advanced tools enhance our design process, allowing us to create more cost-effective, high-quality solutions for our clients.”

Collaboration Within the DB E.C.O. Group

Close collaboration across DB’s global network is essential, Marius Gafitoi says, particularly with entities like DB International Operations within the DB E.C.O. Group. “The Bucharest Design Center plays an integral role in DB E&C’s projects worldwide, which means seamless coordination with other DB groups is crucial.” This networked approach allows him and his team to adapt their designs to meet local standards while supporting DB’s global mission. “This interconnectivity helps us maintain a consistent level of excellence, regardless of project location.”

Embracing Digitalization and Sustainability in Design

Digitalization and sustainability are driving forces behind the Design Center’s work. “We’re continuously integrating BIM and other digital tools to streamline project timelines and reduce costs,” Marius explains. Additionally, sustainability is a core consideration. “Our goal is to design with minimal environmental impact, prioritizing energy-efficient and sustainable solutions. I’m also keen to advance our data management practices to improve project precision and allow for faster, on-the-ground adaptability.”

The Qualities That Make a Great Fit for the Design Center Team

Marius Gafitoi emphasizes the importance of both technical and soft skills for anyone aspiring to join the Bucharest Design Center. “We look for individuals with a strong foundation in civil engineering or similar fields, along with experience in multidisciplinary projects.” Familiarity with BIM and CAD is highly valued, he notes, but adaptability and collaboration are equally crucial. “Our international team requires a proactive mindset and a passion for continuous learning. People who are eager to innovate and find solutions will thrive here.”

A Project That Left a Lasting Impression

One project that stands out for Gafitoi was a large-scale railway modernization initiative focused on enhancing permanent way and embankment structures. “It was an incredibly demanding project, involving coordination across disciplines like geotechnics, electrification, and signaling,” he says. The project’s success underscored the importance of collaboration and technical ingenuity. “It reinforced my belief in the value of a multidisciplinary approach and the dedication of our team.”

Defining the Design Center Romania: Five Key Words

To sum up what makes the Design Center Romania special, Marius offers five defining words: “Efficiency, Global Reach, Technical Excellence, Growth Opportunities, and Multidisciplinary.” These qualities, he believes, set DB E&C’s Bucharest Design Center apart as a hub of innovation and collaboration in the infrastructure sector.

Inspiring a New Generation of Engineers

Marius Gafițoi’s journey from a Railway Track Engineer to the Director of the Bucharest Design Center illustrates the power of continuous learning, collaboration, and a passion for infrastructure. Leading a team that shapes projects on a global scale, he hopes to inspire future engineers to embrace innovation, think beyond borders, and pursue excellence in building sustainable, cutting-edge infrastructure.