Athulya Das, Trainee Electro Technical Officer – India

My name is Athulya Das, and I am from Kerala, India. I have been working at sea for one year as a Trainee Electro Technical Officer, and this journey has already taught me powerful lessons about responsibility and growth.

As a Trainee ETO, I am responsible for maintaining, troubleshooting, and ensuring the safe operation of all electrical, electronic, automation, and control systems on board. My role helps keep the ship powered, safe, and fully functional. Every system I work on carries responsibility, and that awareness has made me more focused, disciplined, and confident in my abilities.

What I enjoy most about this profession is the freedom of open water, the constant sense of adventure, and the peace that comes from being surrounded by nature. Balancing engineering skills with wind, waves, and complex systems makes life at sea both challenging and deeply grounding.

At the beginning of my journey, I was hesitant and a little scared. I wondered what it would be like to be the only woman on board and imagined challenges such as isolation or facing stereotypes. Over time, I found the experience to be rewarding and empowering. So far, I have not encountered major problems, and I’ve learned that the challenges and opportunities of working at sea lead to personal growth and self-discovery. Dreams can come true, but they also come with lessons.

If I could advocate for one change for female seafarers, it would be strong, enforceable zero-tolerance policies against harassment and discrimination. Without safety, respect, and dignity, nothing else truly works.

To women starting out: believe you belong. Build strong skills, set clear boundaries, find mentors, protect your well-being, and never let anyone make you feel smaller than your worth.

The sea teaches humility, resilience, and respect. It reminds you how small you are and how strong you can become. The ocean doesn’t care who you are, only who you become.

Athulya Das, Trainee Electro Technical Officer – India