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Travelling towards a rewarding career in Maritime Engineering

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Terence Gawthorn

2,400 – the number of jobs expected on the Hunter Class frigate in Osborne1, the name of the project under which a new hydrographic vessel will be procured by Navy (Project SEA 2400) – and this is also the distance Terence Gawthorn has travelled to make his career dreams come true.

Terence made the move from the Sunshine Coast to the Apple Isle to commence studying a Bachelor of Maritime Engineering (Marine and Offshore Engineering) with Honours at the University of Tasmania’s specialist institute, the Australian Maritime College (AMC).

After Good Shepherd Lutheran College Career Counsellor Natasha Purcell saw a Naval Shipbuilding College webinar promoted by the Career Industry Council of Australia as part of National Careers Week, she decided to organise a viewing session for her students.

“It (naval shipbuilding) struck me as a unique industry. I saw an opportunity to expand the students’ minds from what they traditionally saw as engineering – civil engineering, building bridges or roads for example. And the NSC webinar was easily accessible and could be watched on-demand, which really helped,” Natasha explained.

Terence couldn’t join the session, but he decided to watch the webinar in his own time. And on viewing the webinar, realized he’d found his calling – and he joined the NSC’s Workforce Register straight afterwards.

During his Career Conversation with Trish Voigt, one of NSC’s Candidate Engagement Consultants, she outlined three study options for Terence that would combine his love of the ocean with his passion for design, construction and engineering. After careful consideration, he chose AMC for their internationally acclaimed courses and facilities.

Attending a recent tour of the AMC campus, he said “the facilities and personalised interactions with lecturers are world class. Some of the facilities, such as the model test basin, towing tank and cavitation research laboratory, are one of only a few in the world”.

AMC also offers numerous scholarships and bursaries to make studying easier, and AMC helped Terence to source accommodation, making the big move that bit easier – another reason Terence chose to study there.

Terence hopes to secure a career as a naval architect once he graduates from the 5-year course.

“Aligning my future with Australia’s Naval Shipbuilding Industry ticks all the boxes,” he said.

“I see myself working for a shipbuilding company designing vessels. I am passionate about having an impact on the world in a way in which people can find use in what I have created.”

Terrence was invited back to his high school, Good Shepherd Lutheran in Noosaville to talk to Year 11 students about his career move – to inspire others to be brave, bold and follow their dreams. Terence encourages all students to consider a career in naval shipbuilding.

“There are vast amounts of opportunities waiting for people in Australia’s Naval Shipbuilding Industry. There is also plenty of support for people undertaking studies in the maritime sector – and organisations such as the NSC are here to help you get there.”

If you or someone you know are interested in knowing more about the job opportunities in Australia’s Naval Shipbuilding Industry – from trades to PhDs – join the NSC’s national Workforce Register, so we can connect your with one of our Candidate Engagement Consultants for your confidential career conversation.

Author: Naval Shipbuilding College

Published on: 25 Feb 2021