A piece of history
Emily Ball wasn't looking for a desk job. At a career fair, amidst the rows of recruiters offering administrative roles, a single empty desk stood out. With a touch of initiative, Emily walked over. That chance encounter two and a half years ago led her to a fulfilling and dynamic career at Portsmouth Historic Quarter.
Here, monotony is a foreign concept. One day she's meticulously restoring wooden planks in the workshop, the next she's on deck of a historic vessel, the salty spray a constant companion. This variety fuels her passion for the maritime world.
___
Eschewing the typical desk job, Emily embraced the opportunity to shadow a shipwright, gaining valuable skills in woodworking and painting. Her thirst for knowledge then led her to explore the intricacies of the engineering side and crewing.
Initially, the male-dominated environment presented a challenge. However, the supportive team at Portsmouth Historic Quarter quickly became her anchor. They provided extensive on-the-job training, a stark contrast to Emily's past experiences where textbooks dominated. Here, learning is an immersive experience, hands-on and engaging.
While initially apprehensive about entering a new field with no prior experience, Emily quickly embraced the challenge. The learning curve was steep, but never felt daunting. Fast forward to today, and she is brimming with confidence.
___
Emily's contributions haven't gone unnoticed. She takes immense pride in her work on a replica Coastal Motor Boat, a project that was subsequently featured on the BBC. Watching a project that she participated in be showcased on national television was as surreal as it was satisfying.
___
The camaraderie with her fellow workmates adds an enriching layer to her role. This encouraging environment has instilled immense confidence in Emily. She now sees teamwork as the cornerstone of their success, a vital element in keeping these historic vessels afloat.
As Emily navigates her career, her ambition is clear. Her promotion to assistant boat keeper is a significant step towards her ultimate goal: becoming the boat keeper. This coveted role encompasses every aspect of caring for these historic vessels, ensuring their seaworthiness and preserving their rich stories.
Emily's story is an inspiration for anyone seeking an unconventional path, encouraging others to break free from stereotypes. For her, employment as a shipwright has been a rewarding career filled with fascinating challenges and endless discoveries. Each day brings a new adventure, coupled with the fulfilling satisfaction of making her own unique contribution to maritime history.
Written by Carly Fields
© Emilie Sandy, 2024