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An island woman who has succeeded in the masculine world of working on deep sea ships is a role model for others who are exploring careers in male-stereotyped skills.

Twenty-nine-year-old, Eilidh Smith, from Aignish in Lewis - thought to be the first female from the Outer Hebrides to secure certification as a Master Mariner - is now an ambassador for the maritime industryin her native islands.

Eilidh who gained her deep sea captain’s ticket last year is looking forward to her new role while on leave.

She will help Include-Us, the European Social Fund and Comhairle nan Eilean Siar-sponsored project which is looking at employment and enterprise opportunities for the young people of the Western Isles.

Eilidh explained: “I have been in the Merchant Navy for eleven years and have sailed on many types of vessels, all over the world.

“I am so pleased to be working with Include-Us – helping young people and encourage them to broaden their horizons and consider what could be a very rewarding career in the Merchant Navy.

“And importantly - explain to all you can enjoy the many challenges and rewards of a career in the Merchant Navy - and still have the pleasure of making the islands your home."

The Include-Us team will deliver sessions to the islands’ schoolchildren and offer an insight into the many possible careers at sea.

In addition to the traditional deck officer and engineering roles, other opportunities in hospitality, electro-technical and shoreside management will also be explored.

In common with many islanders, Eilidh Smith comes from a distinguished line of mariners and ocean going engineers. Her father, Angus Smith, a boat builder to trade, sailed ocean-going superyachts and latterly set up his own chartered yacht business. Eilidh’s uncle Kenneth is a Engineering Superintendent while numerous great uncles served in the Merchant Navy as did one of her grandfathers, with many of them seeing action during World War Two.

It is only in relatively recent years that female sailors have made their mark in the maritime industry. Numbers are steadily increasing as women see the benefits of the financial rewards and lifestyle that is  possible in the Merchant Navy.

Bernard Chisholm, Head of Children’s Services and Resources at Comhairle nan Eilean Siar said: “Eilidh Smith is a wonderful role model. She’s worked hard to develop a successful career and, importantly, she is still very much part of the community into which she was born.

“I am delighted that she’s now going engage with pupils in our four island secondary schools.”

Eilidh highlighted: “There is a massive global officer shortage at the moment. The conditions are good and getting better and better. It is a career that is well paid, you get to see the world, the time off is good and you can enjoy a pretty good lifestyle.

“There are plenty of opportunities to work on some amazingly advanced ships and see the world – I hope to encourage a few more females from the islands to look to sea for exciting challenges and opportunities.”

 

Hebrides News: Eilidh Smith

Make waves, young lady                              8/2/13