UK-based marine college celebrates International Women’s Day

A UK-based marine college is celebrating International Women’s Day by helping women break into marine engineering. South Devon College wants to help change the perception of the marine industry by encouraging more women to work in the sector.

On 1^st April, South Devon College’s Hi Tech & Digital Centre is hosting an event aimed at young women who are interested in a career within the marine sector. There is a variety of activities planned for the day, including a talk from Holly Manvell of Sea Cleaners, a ‘build a boat’ activity, and a VR regatta experience.

Harriette Wade-West, marine lecturer at South Devon College, said, “We are seeing increasing numbers of female students on marine courses, in engineering as well as boat-building and other disciplines. This is really encouraging to see, and it's great to be at the forefront of this shift.

“Pursuing a career in the maritime sector is a great choice for women as there are so many options and opportunities for a challenging career, with the chance to work anywhere in the world.”

Working alongside leading boat builder Princess Yachts, South Devon College offers a marine engineering apprenticeship.

Alison Thompson, head of learning and development at Princess Yachts, explained, “We have reached a 25:75 female to male split, and getting a 50:50 split is looking more likely and it will revolutionise the marine industry.”

20-year-old Charlotte Hewitson studied engineering at college but only recently decided to specialise in marine engineering. Now she’s on an apprenticeship at Princess Yachts which involves one day of study at South Devon College.

“My sector inspires me because there are so many opportunities and experiences across the whole sector, not just in my job currently, but as a whole. I also like how the jobs vary and there’s a broad range of jobs including mechanical and electrical. I hope to finish my apprenticeship with Princess yachts and expand my knowledge, skills and experience,” Hewitson said.

Also on the marine engineering apprenticeship programme at Princess Yachts is 19-year-old Freya Wood. She enjoys the practical side of the work and the fact that it’s then backed up by her study at college.

“I like engineering because you can see the work you’ve put in. Even when it’s little jobs, it’s nice to see it and think ‘I did that’, and have a physical reminder of the work you do.”

South Devon Marine Academy’s plan over the next 10 years aims to have a more balanced ratio of men and women within the maritime sector and offer students a vibrant and flexible education with strong industry relationships.

The academy is perfectly placed to supporting academic study as well as practical delivery on the water. It offers students of all ages high quality facilities, including a marine engineering workshop, a research and design facility, and a bridge simulator.

For those wishing to pursue higher level qualifications, the marine academy also offers two foundation degrees - Marine Technologies, and Maritime Leadership and Vessel Management.

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