NMIT signs ‘She of the Sea’ pledge to support diversity in the yachting industry

NMIT signs ‘She of the Sea’ pledge to support diversity in the yachting industry

NMIT has committed to creating a diverse and inclusive yachting industry by signing the international ‘She of the Sea’ pledge.

As a training institute, NMIT is often the first port of call for students who aspire to work in the yachting industry and it’s an honour to encourage diversity from the ground up.

That includes creating an environment in which all students feel empowered and supported to pursue a rewarding career in the industry, regardless of gender, race, ethnicity, or orientation.

 "We are committed to building practices and cultures that actively facilitate, cultivate and celebrate diversity and inclusion, at all levels, throughout our organisation, and our industry"(external link) 

Recent graduates of NMIT’s Certificate in Superyacht Crewing programme, Laura Erichsen and Sage Alexander-Wood, exemplify the ethos of ‘She of the Sea’.

The 12-week programme with three intakes throughout the year prepares students for work as a superyacht crew member.

Students get to use NMIT’s world-class facilities, including local charter yachts, powerboats, simulators, and the country’s only purpose-built three-storey maritime fire fighting facility.

Sage says she’s always loved the sea, which led her to start sailing and racing small yachts.

Sage coming into Port like a pro

 “I thought a superyacht career would help me save money so I could buy my own boat to live on.”

She says she enjoyed developing the wide range of skills, including powerboating, firefighting and navigation, taught during the programme.

“The tutors are teaching us things that they truly like doing. They've all come from these different backgrounds out of the maritime industry and they share that knowledge with us.”

Sage says she’d like to try and get work on one of the superyachts that are in New Zealand for America’s Cup, or with a yacht delivery company.

Laura was working as a watersports and outdoors instructor in the United Kingdom before having to return to New Zealand because of COVID-19.

Laura Erichsen out in Nelson Bay practising her fast boat manoeuvres.

“The superyacht course really appealed to me because it's exactly the industry that I want to be in and it had all the right things to keep progressing me through, whether it was specific to superyachts, or other areas of maritime and watersports.”

She says the course was “very practical” and the 12 weeks are packed with relevant learning.

“It’s doing the theory and planning in the classroom and then applying that practically. That's really been awesome to do because that's how the industry works, it's all very practical,” she says. “It's just been awesome.”

Laura also intends to apply for work on a superyacht during America’s Cup or with a ferry in Auckland.

The three intakes for the Certificate in Superyacht Crewing are February 1, May 17, and August 30, learn more here.

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