There can be a lot of discrimination, sexism, and racism out on the waters. With seafarers coming from different backgrounds and having different opinions on matters, it is essential to teach the students learning to become
The new captains of the sea taught the proper etiquette of working with women, racialized individuals, indigenous peoples, and other underrepresented communities. Women only represent two percent of the world's 1.2 million seafarers (Chamber of Marine Commerce, 2019), so it is critical to see how the new generation of seafarers might change those statistics.
The students I have spoken with have said that it is as though you have become a family onboard. A very collective family. With similarities and differences. When speaking with five Nautical Science students from Marine Institute, I gained an understanding of their experiences in lectures, work terms, and the overall school environment—touching on the subjects of tolerance, the challenges they have faced, and what they have learned from their higher-ups.
When speaking with Julia and Grace, two second-year Nautical Science students, they were incredibly hopeful for the future of women in the ocean industry. They are proud to be a part of the future of women in seafaring positions. While the two girls have faced challenges, they are hopeful.
"I do not want to be seen as a female on the bridge. I want to be on the bridge. I do not want to be seen as a female cadet. I want to be a cadet." J.Young
Julia is breaking down gender stereotypes of women in the workplace. She wants to be treated equally and with equity. to be viewed as every other class seafarer. She is unafraid to stand up for herself and her education. Grace and Julia believe that the best way to break down gender-based jokes in the workplace is by having men hold each other accountable.
"There is a small community currently of women seafarers. The men need to take some responsibility to stand up for us. Holding themselves accountable for their statements." said Grace.
Eliminating discriminating and sexist talk on board is essential to make a more comfortable working environment for women and other underrepresented communities. Standing up to your counterparts for derogatory or discriminating comments can make a pivotal change in life at sea.
"Women have so much more to take into account with work terms. Researching the history of sexual harassment in the company and ensuring it is a safe workplace. Sometimes I envy men and how they do not have to think about these aspects when applying for work." says Julia. When managing life at sea, treating those with equity rather than just equality is essential—accommodating each individual's needs.
"The best way to eliminate discrimination and sexism is to educate current and younger generations on the issues continuously." C.Lundrigan
When speaking with the three gentlemen, they gave me an insight into what it is like to work with different communities, genders, nationalities, and races they got to work beside on their work terms.
"I have had the chance to work alongside a wide range of people. The work environment I found was a lot better with diversity. You can learn about different work styles and cultures. I gained some valuable relationships and life skills when on a boat with a large diverse crew," Daniel explains. He has worked with international seafaring vessels, gaining knowledge and respect from people of different backgrounds.
The students explained how they could also gain alternative work skills and cultural knowledge in a working environment with a wide range of people. The future ocean industry members, Colin, Ryan, and Daniel, have open minds, aiding the ocean industry in the fight for diversity.
Explicitly touching on the work-term applications, and the aid in female recruiting as companies aim to gain a more diverse crew on board their vessels the male students have no problem with sharing the workload.
"The Marine Institute is working on diversity in the industry by ensuring women get equal opportunities. This is just aiding the steps toward a more diverse ocean industry. Which is needed." Ryan explains.
Ryan has worked with companies with some female crew members, and he says they are more respected if anything— Masters have never been seen making an effort to delegate tasks specific to gender or race but on skill level. Never in a personal way when on board.
"The women that I have worked with were treated equally and with respect. If you respect and include others out at sea, they will give that back to you. When out at sea, the delegation of work is always done by workplace safety and efficiency, not who people are personally." Colin explains.
"Diversity is constantly increasing and growing. If the ocean industry continues to aid the fight for diversity, morale and opportunities will only improve in the work environment." D.Penney
Although there are some differences in experiences in the Nautical Science program, these students joined the program for similar reasons. Daniel joined because it is the career path some of his family members chose, as well as Grace's family; Colin joined for aspects of being able to travel and the lifestyle of working offshore and time at home as well as Julia.
With the Canadian Women Oceans Industries Leadership Conference coming up in May here in St.John's, the students are ready to learn about making the oceans industries a more inclusive space for all. Gaining knowledge from experts in the field and bringing their own experiences to the table whilst also gaining valuable networking partners to aid their future careers.
Diversity is what makes the world a beautiful place. Combating our differences to create a happy and healthy work environment is critical to the increasing success of the ocean industry. Some may think diversity is not essential in the workplace, but when speaking with these students, we can see how it is much more of an asset to an efficient and safe environment.