Cadet Offi cer

ABDUL QADER HENDRICKS

NAVIGATION CADET OFFICER SEASPAN SHIP MANAGEMENT

From a young age I had a love for aviation and US Navy fi ghter jets and aircraft carriers. Back then I wanted to pursue a career in aviation or navigation, specifi cally on an aircraft carrier. I learnt more about these career paths through my own research, and ultimately decided to enroll myself at a school where I would do two extra subjects to do with the maritime industry as a Grade 10 learner.

I had the advantage of obtaining a bursary from Transnet National Ports Authority to attend school at Simon’s Town High, where I did two extra subjects (Nautical Science and Maritime Economics), which included practical training and training voyages on ships. After I matriculated, I completed one year of my National Diploma in Maritime Studies at CPUT. The second year is required in order to graduate and to become a Chief Navigating Offi cer or Master Mariner. After fi rst-year, I joined a company to complete my practical sea experience (minimum 12 months). I am currently busy doing my practical at a Canadian-based company called Seaspan Ship Management, and will then write the Deck Offi cer of the Watch unlimited examination, which will enable me to sail as a Third Navigating Offi cer onboard ships trading worldwide. I have also completed various STCW courses and other training at Samtra during the past year or so.

It’s defi nitely not for the fainthearted! You should be a strongwilled person who knows what responsibility means, is able to make important decisions and can remain calm under pressure.

I believe that experience is one of the most important aspects. Most of your knowledge is gained during your practical time at sea and what you learn practically tends to stay in your memory.

Your primary duties are to keep navigational watches. The watches are divided between Chief, Second and Third Navigating offi cers, each shift consisting of eight hours per day. As a Third Navigating Offi cer, I would be in charge of watches (08:00 - 12:00, and 20:00 - midnight). Other additional responsibilities include the maintenance of life-saving and fi re-fi ghting equipment.

I love travelling around the world visiting major cities and meeting people from diverse cultures.

Spending time away from home.

The adrenaline rush that I get when navigating the world’s oceans in traffi c-congested waters.

To further my navigation career and to obtain my Class 1 unlimited license (Master Mariner). I would love to work ashore as a Ship Surveyor or Marine Harbour Pilot.