We caught up with Heidi Williams Jones, Chiltern Maritime Deck Cadet, who is sponsored by UK Dredging, to find out more about how her cadetship is going, why she chose to study a cadetship, and the advice she would give to future cadets.
Why did you decide to start a cadetship?
“I decided to start a cadetship in 2022, when I was working on a Ro-Ro ferry for the summer whilst completing my masters dissertation. Previously, most of the men in my family have all worked at sea, as Officers and ABs.
I never really considered a career at sea for myself, until the Captain and two Officers on the ship I worked on were women, and I was talking with the cadet on board, too. This, as well as completing the Basic Safety Training course, really sparked an incredible interest in this career for me. After finishing one phase at college and one at sea, I can’t imagine myself doing anything else.”
You’re our first cadet sponsored by UK Dredging, how does that feel?
“It is very exciting to be the first cadet sponsored by UK Dredging. At first, I was worried that being on a smaller ship might put me at a disadvantage to others in my cohort, but the more I learn about the vessels and the company, the more excited I become about all of the things I will learn throughout my time on board. I feel like my time with UK Dredging will provide me with an abundance of knowledge to carry with me throughout my career.”
How are you enjoying your cadetship so far?
“So far, I am really enjoying my cadetship. I have studied a variety of courses, including Fire-Fighting, Efficient Deck Hand, and Proficiency in Survival Craft and Rescue Boats, allowing me to gain so much knowledge.
The courses are very engaging and encapsulate everything that I am interested in!
I started my first sea phase in August 2023 where I worked on board three UK Dredging vessels – the Bluefin, the Marlin and the Orca.
I’ve had many opportunities provided to me, including working out on deck, in the engine room, driving the ship and even doing a bit of dredging! I was also very fortunate to get to experience a dry dock.”
How did you find the application process at Chiltern Maritime to become a Cadet?
“The application process at Chiltern Maritime was great, a really easy and simple process with quick and efficient communication.”
How do you feel your Chiltern Maritime Training Officers support have supported you during your cadetship?
“The Training Officers have been very supportive during my cadetship so far. Whenever I have a query, I never hesitate to ask them, and they always respond to me in a timely manner which is great. Luckily I haven’t encountered any issues in my cadetship, but if I did, I would be confident that the Training Officers would be very helpful for me.”
What are your 3 top tips for anyone looking to start a cadetship?
- “Make sure you do your research before you apply – ensure it is the right career for you, perhaps look into the companies or types of ships you would like to sail with.”
- “Be prepared to be wholeheartedly commit to the course – you will never stop learning, even when qualified.”
- “Embrace everything that comes your way. It can be overwhelming, but there is always someone there to help you, or someone ready to share the knowledge you require.”
Feeling inspired by Heidi’s experience? Explore our range of maritime cadetships here.
