Marine Engineering
Career Pathways FAQ
What is an entry level role within the trade?
Depending on experience this would be an improver or level 1 engineer.
What qualifications for an entry level role?
A relevant qualification in plumbing or mechanics or marine engineering apprenticeship.
What experience would you need?
A marine background or general trades people with extensive experience in plumbing or mechanics.
What are the most rewarding aspects of your trade?
Being part of a team that has built a large vessel. The variation of tasks and working on new technology such as green energy options. The engineering team are a close and friendly team who are always willing to help each other.
What do you like about working for Wight Shipyard/in the shipbuilding industry?
WSC is a large company offering well paid employment in the local area. Its exciting to be part of a fast-growing company within a global group because of the potential the opportunities that could brings i.e. the option to work in different countries. The flexibility to broaden your skills into other trades. The teamwork and opportunity to collaborate.
What kind of attributes do you need to have to progress?
Efficiency, analytical, solutions/problem solving skills, communication skills, decision making skills and autonomy, calm and collected attitude, hard working, willing.
What would be the next step up?
Level 2 engineer.
Where can you get to within your trade/profession? Is there a clear pathway, please describe?
From apprenticeship to levels 1-4 and then Supervisor and from there you can progress to a management role.
What qualifications/training can you do to progress a career within your trade?
Shaft alignment training, welding training, forklift training, crane training, armourflex training , management courses
What qualification did you do?
I did a Level 3 Marine Engineering apprenticeship at Medina Marine Services in Cowes after leaving school.
What did you do after this?
I developed my experience by working on larger vessels by working on Superyachts in Palma and Barcelona.
When did you join Wight Shipyard?
I joined Wight Shipyard as a fully skilled Engineer in 2019.
How did you progress your career at Wight Shipyard?
I have always had a good work ethic and have been willing to go above and beyond for the company. I have a positive attitude and am able to work very efficiently. Because of this, I was offered a Supervisor role in 2023 and became the Engineering Manager, overseeing the department in 2024.
What advice would you give others wanting to progress their career?
It's important that you respect the people you work with and absorb their knowledge and experience. You should take pride in your work and not just do it for the money.
Bio: Ben Read
Role: Engineering Manager
