Women joining IoW superyacht cadetship on the rise
UKSA has reported a 150 per cent increase in the number of women undertaking its superyacht cadetship from 2020 to 2021 in a trend that sees a positive shift towards increased diversity in the superyacht sector.
The Isle of Wight-based charity, which provides water-based adventures, education, and maritime training, saw an increase in the number of women from six per cent to 15 per cent from 2020-21 and a 26 per cent increase in students taking up the course overall.
Available to those aged 18-25, and now accepting applicants for its September 2022 intake, the structured four-year programme is designed to train the future officer of the superyacht industry and was created with the Maritime and Coastguard Agency (MCA).
James Potipher, cadetship manager at UKSA says: “This course is a fantastic alternative to university and uniquely, students earn while they learn so they can pay off their course fees whilst they’re working and training in the industry. We’re really pleased to see a positive shift in the percentage of women taking up the course and paving the way for a better diversity mix in the years ahead.
“We still have a way to go, but this is a great indicator of changing times. Not only is the course all inclusive of food and accommodation during the training phases, there are also grants and funding available to make the course available to as many young people as possible.”
The course equips graduates with a strong foundation of knowledge, alongside offering a realistic understanding of what it takes to succeed in a career in the superyacht industry.
Cadets also have the opportunity to undertake a foundation degree in Operational Yacht Science during phase one and three of the superyacht cadetship, which is awarded by the University of Plymouth. The option gives additional careers and training pathways into different sectors in the maritime industry.
In 2021, UKSA signed the ‘She of the Sea’ pledge, a commitment to work together to build a diverse and inclusive yachting industry.
Jenny Matthews, She of the Sea founder, comments: “Seeing such a dramatic increase in female representation in such a short time indicates the changing tide when it comes to industry stereotypes and traditionally male-dominated departments on board.”
“Providing passionate, career-focused individuals of all genders a clear, supportive path forward will be instrumental in creating a robust, diverse and inclusive talent pipeline, and attracting the next generation of yachting professionals. The work UKSA is doing through this cadetship is creating a ripple effect we are excited to see shape our collective future!”
