Isle of Wight Maritime Roadshow for Girls

Earlier this week, Red Funnel’s Sandra Whatley and Stefania Kantoch attended The Isle of Wight Maritime Roadshow for girls, the first in a series of careers days organised by Maritime UK.  

Over 100 girls aged between 11 and 15 years old from local Island schools attended the careers day at Cowes Enterprise College, eager to find out more about working in the maritime industry and the jobs that are available.  

The pupils were given the opportunity to meet female representatives from Solent based maritime businesses face-to-face, asking any questions they may have and learning more about the job roles within a maritime company, the experience and qualifications they may need, and about the skills required to be successful in these roles.  

With many women in senior roles and across our work force, including our CEO, Red Funnel are proud to have been invited to attend the event - an opportunity to inspire the next generation of maritime specialists in what is historically a male dominated industry.  

Long standing members of the Red Funnel team, Sandra and Stefania spoke to the girls about their own career paths at Red Funnel, the opportunity for apprenticeships within the company, the career ladder through various roles and qualifications needed to become a captain or engineer.  

They also spoke about the benefits of working for a domestic ferry company, with the captain, bridge, deck, and onboard crews getting to go home at the end of their day, rather than working days, weeks, or months away at sea as with most maritime jobs – ideal for those looking for a maritime career and a work/life balance.  

The road show provided a rare opportunity to speak face to face with young girls with an interest in the maritime careers - and hopefully inspiring them to join the industry.