Hooked on training: former Royal Navy officer supports the next generation of fishermen

After spending 12 years in the Royal Navy, I decided I needed a new challenge so, thanks to the assistance of a career advisor, I transferred my skills and qualifications to pursue a role in the fishing industry.  

Now, as a Fishermen's Training Advisor at Seafish, I use the leadership and organisational skills I learned in the Royal Navy to train and support commercial fishermen throughout the UK. 

Growing up in Cleethorpes, I've always felt a connection with the sea.  

It led me to a career in the Royal Navy, where I discovered my passion for mentoring others.  

As a petty officer in Above Water Warfare Weapons, I had the opportunity to train my peers, notably as a ceremonial drill instructor, honing my organisational and time management skills. 

 My passion for training and development flourished after my progression to a Senior Rate, a leadership role in which I was responsible for managing and supporting the development of a team of 15-20 cadets.  

Through my guidance, I ensured they could complete tasks safely and efficiently using the resources available to them. 

Life at sea can be challenging and, when accidents occur, it's crucial to remain calm to be able to address the situation effectively.  

To help with this, the Royal Navy provides training in sea survival and firefighting, both of which were beneficial to my new role here at Seafish. 

After leaving the Royal Navy, I was eager to pursue a career in training and development but struggled to see how my military experience applied to civilian jobs.  

Unknown to me, my time management, organisational, and leadership skills I gained as a ceremonial drill instructor were all applicable to training roles in the maritime sector. 

Transferring my Royal Navy qualifications in these areas to civilian equivalents was relatively straightforward.  

An email to the relevant course bodies confirmed my course completion and provided me with the recognised Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers qualifications. 

Applying my skills 

The skills gained through my Royal Navy career have been invaluable in my current role at Seafish, where I train commercial fishermen to work safely as a cohesive unit at sea. 

Recently, I put these skills into practice by helping guide fishermen through the appropriate steps in the event of a man-overboard situation at a training event in Aberdeen. 

What I love most about my role at Seafish is the opportunity to meet incredible people in the commercial fishing industry. Hearing their stories and learning about their careers has been genuinely inspiring.  

You don't need a traditional background in fishing to make a difference in the fishing industry. So, if the next time you're thinking about changing your career, consider how your own experiences could make you suitable for a role in a different industry. Who knows where your journey could take you? 

About the Author 

Hannah Ebo is our Commercial Fishermen's Training Advisor. She provides guidance to commercial fishermen on safety courses and supports approved training providers in delivering training to the fishing industry. Her role is essential in helping new fishermen obtain the necessary qualifications.