Careers: How to become a harbour master

When did you decide you wanted to work in the maritime industry?

I had a keen interest in working at sea from the age of 15; the only knowledge I had about careers was from the Royal Navy – I found out about the merchant navy much later. 

How did you set about achieving your ambition?

It took a while before my career started formally, with a Merchant Navy Cadetship in 2000, aged 23, with the shipping company Maersk. Before then, I studied for a degree in public sector management, targeting my studies to subjects connected to a maritime career, such as the leisure industry and crisis management. When on leave from university, I sailed onboard TS Royalist and worked as a boating instructor at Port Edgar Boat Station. I still had a strong interest in a career at sea but no clear path. I was following the Royal Navy direct entry route after graduating, but went along to a merchant navy open day and decided that was a more suitable route to sea for me.

What were the highlights of your time at sea in the Merchant Navy? 

Some of the best bits of being at sea are experiencing parts of the world that you have seen on TV and creating your own memories. I remember sailing under the Golden Gate Bridge; arriving at the bright lights of Hong Kong; transiting the Panama and Suez Canals; and spending time in Italy on a newly built cruise ship. But what I remember most fondly are some of the people I met onboard. 

You worked for the British Antarctic Survey – what was that like?

It’s hard to imagine the wildlife and the colossal size of some of the icebergs! Knowing you were part of a team discovering science that affects everyone in the world gave a different sense of achievement. I really enjoyed the small boats side of my job; having progressed through the RYA power scheme, I had the knowledge and skills to handle a RIB in cold, tricky waters. Navigation is also different in ice; you can’t always take a direct route and must find alternative ways through. 

What does your current role involve?

I have overall responsibility for my 12-hour watch, day or night. I issue clearance for ships to sail and enter the port, and hold the harbour master authority when they are not present. We remain constantly conscious of the marine environment and deal with any emergencies that occur. 

What do you on an average day?

No two days are the same. We work together to ensure that ships have the correct information to move safely in and out of the ports, while managing the services required, such as towage, mooring teams and pilots. We use VHF radio to communicate with the ships. 

What’s the best part of your job?

Problem-solving and traffic management – especially on very busy days – both give a great sense of accomplishment, when you can get all the vessels moving close to their requested time. 

And what’s the most challenging part?

Keeping delays to a minimum. There are many berths on the Tees and Hartlepool ports, with many safety regulations to consider. Some vessels await tidal windows, so these also need to be considered. 

How have things improved for women in the sector during your career?

Acceptance had been the greatest change. The mindset of most people now is that its not just a sector for men. Education plays a vital role, and being a female role model helps: I have spoken to local sea cadets as a Careers at Sea Ambassador and hopefully inspired others to consider roles in the maritime sector. I want women in the sector to have more confidence and self-belief; to just be the best version of themselves and not try to be the best at everything or be extra tough on themselves. We all contribute in many different ways! 

How did Sea Cadets help to prepare you for a career at sea? 

The knowledge gained as a cadet – from the terminology to an introduction to so many subjects – gave me a solid foundation. Although I pursued a Deck Officer cadetship, lots of my knowledge came from studying engineering with Sea Cadets and my power boat qualifications helped my understanding of small craft engines. 

What are your fondest memories of being a sea cadet?

Sailing onboard TS Royalist at the age of 17. I enjoyed doing drill and remember feeling very proud going to London as part of a squad and meeting members of the royal family. Navy days, playing in the band… we had so much fun. I felt on top of the world when I passed my Leading Cadet board and realised I could go on to achieve the rank of Petty Officer Cadet. These pivot points really boosted my self-confidence. And I am still close with many of my friends from Sea Cadets – you really do make friends for life! 

Photos: Wendy O’Donnell