I find my job exciting because I get to combine theoretical Knowledge, day to day experiences and innovation to resolve issues. So, the most enjoyable moment is when I resolve an issue and the equipment starts to run again.
One of the challenges I have faced in the span of 8 years is the discrimination I face because of my gender. This I faced from day one at the Marine Academy where you face professors who do not believe women can make it in the industry. It went on as I applied for an apprenticeship where most companies I applied to did not accept women apprentices. It went on during my sea time where I have faced sexual harassment and various forms of discrimination. I started my first contract at 18 years old and facing some of the issues at such a young age was not easy. After crying and crying, I started to become stronger and stronger. I had realized, from the very beginning, of how much I love this job, how passionate I am about it and that nobody can make me quit. I work hard, I study hard, and I know my capabilities. If someone doesn’t want to see that and work with me, it’s their own.
To the women coming after me the sea Is a magical place to work. You will have the chance to travel around the world, see new places, meet people from different nationalities and cultures. Also, you will have the chance to learn and work with amazing equipment and new technologies which I’m sure you don’t even know exist. But you need to be strong! It will be hard. You will feel lonely, powerless and maybe have second thoughts. But, never give up, because at the end, it is really magical. If I made it, you can make it!
Anna Avgoustaki, 3rd Engineer
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