A Chief Officer’s view: behind the scenes on our new methanol-capable vessels

Now that you have met some of your new colleagues and done some trainings together, what are your first impressions?

They are all highly motivated and that is a big thing. They all applied for their own different reasons to be a part of this and were successful in competing through the selection process. So, you know they are all goal driven and motivated to be here. I am happy to be sailing alongside these people!

What do you think will be the biggest challenges with the new vessel?

Challenges are similar to opportunities; it just depends on how you treat them! With something brand new, and untested on an actual voyage, there will surprises. When you know this and treat the surprises as opportunities, it is no bother.

The ship is rigorously tested and monitored onshore, but you still then must use it. For me, it is down to actual sailing and feeling of the vessel when we are underway. The exciting part is how we will conquer challenges that we do not yet know about!

In your time at Maersk, what are some of the biggest changes you have seen?

The leadership is one area that has really improved - the environment onboard the vessels is really nice. Maersk vessels have always been a nice workplace, but now you really see changes in how leaders shape the environment in a very hands-on and focused way. Universally, it is more inclusive for all.

Also in a traditionally male dominated workplace, it’s been challenging to increase the number of female seafarers, but I think it is handled well today and getting a lot of attention. We are in the process of recruiting more women, a great and untapped source of talent for the future.

How has this impacted the culture on our vessels?

Having diverse crews very much helps the environment on board, but it does take active care. Some cultures and nationalities for example do not have the easiest time opening up to the opposite sex, or are not so familiar with having a boss of a different gender. But as the crew get to know each other, professionally and by socializing, people get over their biases and respect one another, and this creates a great environment in the end.

So, for example, mealtimes are very important onboard. As officers, when we are together, we tell them ‘Don’t talk shop, tell us about your husband or wife, tell us about your kids.

You have had a rewarding career so far. If you were talking to someone just entering their career, what advice would you give them?

Many new cadets are very eager, and they should of course enjoy but also just take it easy, listen and learn. And ask a lot of questions. A lot!

I know they have many questions, but are sometimes hesitating to ask – for me personally my door is always open, and there is no such thing as a stupid question. Most Maersk officers have sailed all around the world and know a lot, so enjoy and learn from them. Aside from deep knowledge and a love for life at sea, they often have amazing stories to tell. Cadets should take full advantage of the tradition they have joined.