Interview with Pania Smogavec
Pania Smogavec joined the marine services company ADEC Kedge as a Marine Surveyor in early 2024, servicing the broader Queensland and Northern New South Wales areas. According to Labour Market Insights, females make up only 2% of the workforce of Marine Surveyors. This is 47 percentage points below the all-jobs average of 49%.* We spoke to Pania about her experience in the field.
CAN YOU TELL US ABOUT YOUR EDUCATIONAL BACKGROUND AND CAREER JOURNEY?
I’m accredited with the Australian Maritime Safety Authority (AMSA) for vessels under 35m and a member of the Australian Institute of Marine Surveyors (AIMS). During my 20 years working on super yachts, I frequently observed the professional and respectful treatment of Marine Surveyors when they came aboard. I thought to myself, “How do I get a job like that?” Upon returning to Australia as a sole parent, I sought opportunities for further education to ensure a better life for my daughter and me. During this search, I discovered the AIMS Diploma of Marine Surveying. I completed the course and attended an AIMS conference in Hobart where I secured a position with a future employer for whom I worked in Queensland for 5 years.
WHAT SPARKED YOUR PASSION FOR THE MARITIME INDUSTRY?
My passion was sparked when I stumbled into the industry in Canada. I went from cleaning boats for a charter sailing company to working as a stewardess on a superyacht. After travelling the coastlines of Canada, the USA and the Mediterranean, how could you not love the ocean and want to continue working around it? I have worked in many shipyards around the world refitting different vessels. You learn a lot pulling parts apart while out of the water. I was always interested in how things worked.
WHAT DO YOU LIKE MOST IN THIS PROFESSION?
What I like most about being a marine surveyor is the constant unpredictability and change. Each day is a new adventure, much like the ocean itself.
WHAT IS YOUR EXPERIENCE WORKING AS A FEMALE IN A TRADITIONALLY MALE-DOMINATED INDUSTRY?
My experience has been overwhelmingly positive. As a mariner who has travelled the seas on different yachts, I often found myself in situations where trust in the captain and crew was paramount. I had some amazing mentors and learned a lot. Determined to build upon what I had learned, I pursued a career as a Marine Surveyor, demonstrating that dedication and passion can transcend traditional gender roles.
HOW CAN THE QLD MARITIME INDUSTRY BENEFIT FROM FEMALE MARINE SURVEYORS?
Diversity in the workforce introduces fresh perspectives, fosters innovation, and enhances decision-making processes. By investing in and promoting women within the industry, companies can uplift their operations and contribute positively to the broader community. Many people are unaware of this profession and its viability, even for women balancing careers and family responsibilities. Encouraging and supporting women in these roles can lead to a more robust and inclusive maritime sector.
CAN YOU SHARE ANY MEMORABLE EXPERIENCES FROM YOUR CAREER?
It has been very rewarding to be a part of the process of a vessel being built from start to finish, and then seeing it operate successfully on the water. Additionally, I found great satisfaction in hearing from a captain whose fishing vessel I had surveyed. Initially sceptical about the new AMSA regulations, he later expressed gratitude as these safety measures ultimately proved to be lifesaving.
WHAT ADVICE WOULD YOU GIVE A YOUNG WOMAN CONSIDERING A CAREER IN MARINE SURVEYING?
If you want to further your career in the Maritime Industry, becoming a Marine Surveyor is another way to continue. You will play a critical role in ensuring maritime safety and compliance, making it a vital, respected, and fulfilling profession. You will need an eye for detail andan understanding of the NSCV.
WHY WERE YOU DRAWN TO ADEC KEDGE?
Becoming a Marine Surveyor at ADEC Kedge was an exciting new opportunity in my career journey. With the right education, practical experience, and a supportive network, you can excel in this field. It can have its challenges, but the rewards and personal satisfaction you gain will make it worthwhile.
I am also thrilled about how ADEC Kedge embraces new technologies and innovations, especially in the decarbonisation field. It will allow the maritime sector to become more efficient, safe and environmentally friendly, creating a better connection between people, ships and ports.
To find out more 1300 89 95 96 service@kedge.com.au www.kedge.com.au
*(Source: https://www.jobsandskills.gov.au/data/labour-market-insights/occupations/231215-marine-surveyors – ABS, 2021 Census of Population and Housing based on place of usual residence)
Published in print August-December 2024
