Esta Rose Clark, Deck Officer Cadet – UK

As a Deck Cadet, my role onboard is to focus on learning the role of a Deck Officer. I take part in navigation, FFE/LSA maintenance, deck maintenance and other roles of the Officers. I try to get involved with everything to understand responsibilities on the Bridge and on Deck and make sure each day I spend time on both. Working offshore means that we spend a lot of time on DP and eventually I will become a DP Officer so I spend time trying to familiarize myself with the system to help in the future. What I love about this job is that every day is different! With working offshore I also enjoy the thrill of putting your first anchor system down, your first subsea lift or the first time you see a platform, rig or FPSO up close rather from a distance. Also the sunsets and clear night skies are amazing while at sea nothing compared to being on land.

Unfortunately I have faced many challenges in my career because of my gender. Many people make assumptions about what I am capable of and it often leads to me trying to prove myself which no one should ever have to do. As I am only 18 many people treat me like a child and didn’t take me seriously at first. Everyone is equal and women don’t deserve to go through these struggles and I am so grateful for the support from fellow female seafarers who have helped me through it all. One thing I would advocate for in the maritime industry is that all ships should be stocked with female hygiene products to facilitate female seafarers just like they do for male seafarers.

My advice would be to prepare yourself before you start because it is not a straight road ahead and you will face many challenges. But also don’t worry about what other people think, always stand your ground, speak up and never be afraid to say your opinion.

Esta Rose Clark, Deck Officer Cadet – UK