MLA College Superyacht Crew Case Studies

INNOVATE |ADVOCATE | COLLABORATE | EDUCATE

One of a series of case studies of superyacht crew currently enrolled on the MSc and BSc Sustainable Maritime Operations (SMO) courses, how do they approach the tricky dilemma of balancing a very demanding working life, whilst studying a degree level course and what was their motivation to enrol on the program?

 

Mick: Chief Engineer. I started studying for my MSc in January 2022, balancing my study with a rotational chief engineer’s role and a busy family life. In practice this means putting in a lot of late nights and early mornings in order to complete module assignments, times where I can work uninterrupted and keep my focus.

I find it important to maintain two values: the first is balance and the second one is patience. Social life, family life, rest and exercise are extremely important parts of a fulfilling life; human needs must be balanced with college workload - spending time to reduce stress helps maintain focus. Patience is necessary because I have found it necessary to read volumes of research papers just to get a few sentences. It can be necessary to write, delete and write again many times to make a point and keep to a word count. It’s daunting and frustrating at first but ultimately rewarding.

 

“The MSc Syllabus aligns strongly with my career arc”

Mick: Chief Engineer

 

I feel that the MSc syllabus aligns strongly with my career arc, particularly as I commence the Project 

and Data Management module. I aim to continue my seagoing career as chief engineer for now, while also focusing on building skills for an eventual transition to shore based employment. Studying at this level supports these aims and has been an ambition of mine for a long time. I have become increasingly interested in sustainability in recent years, particularly since becoming a chief engineer.

Working towards sustainable goals is an important part of my role onboard, it’s something that has value to the community as well as my employer. I know that building experience and knowledge in this field will allow me to develop my career in interesting and fulfilling ways.