18th May is the International Maritime Organization’s International Day for Women in Maritime.
Here’s what Emma, Claire, Evie and Lisa from Cattewater Harbour said about being women in maritime.
Emma: “I love the variety that working in maritime brings – no two days are ever the same. My advice to anyone looking to start a career in maritime is to do some research and see what roles may suit you best. If you’re wanting to learn new skills and have new opportunities definitely look at doing an apprenticeship, you’re getting paid to learn.
When we have our classroom days at Cattewater Harbour I always talk about how I started on an apprenticeship and how it will help shape my future maritime career.”
Claire: “It is my absolute privilege to tell the stories of the Cattewater Harbour team and the work they do in Plymouth – amplifying achievements, sharing successes and highlighting harbour life, both day-to-day and the more unique!
There really are ‘oceans of opportunities’ for women in maritime – it’s my job to share them, talk about them and present the real life women doing the real life jobs to inspire the next generation, whether a career on land or at sea in maritime beckons.”
Evie: “Being a woman in maritime is about showing there is a place for everyone in this diverse and fast-growing industry. I’ve been in my role as Business Support Officer at Cattewater Harbour for just under two years, and week by week, both my role and my confidence continue to grow. I support the smooth day-to-day running of the harbour to help keep Plymouth’s port operating efficiently. I also have the privilege of representing our wonderful city on both a national and international scale, particularly at cruise events, where I’m involved in helping to develop cruise tourism and showcase all that Plymouth has to offer.
I’m very proud to be part of a small group of strong and powerful women at Cattewater Harbour, each of us bringing something unique to the team.”
Lisa: “For me a key aspect is being able to use my voice – to share my views as a thought leader, to provide technical advice and to speak up for what is right. I particularly enjoy outreach aspects of my Security & Sustainability role, representing Cattewater and speaking on topics such as managing risks of Modern Slavery & Smuggling.
We have an extremely diverse set of stakeholders in Plymouth and our operations interface with networks extending far beyond our locality. Great to be able to influence activities ashore and afloat, to the horizon and beyond.”
