Paul Ngambet
Maritime
Deck Officer Cadet programme
“The experience helped build my confidence which is important in this role as you need to be able to explain your decisions.”
Inspired by his seafaring uncle, Paul changed career path from engineering to the Merchant Navy.
Originally from Cameroon, 23-year-old Paul Ngambet studied engineering at college in Glasgow after he finished school.
Paul completed his HNC and began working in engineering but realised he wanted a more practical, hands-on career.
He said, “I tried engineering but didn’t like it – I prefer practical stuff, and engineering can be more office-based.”
Paul’s uncle is in the Navy, and after speaking with him, he felt inspired to pursue a career at sea.
Although he initially planned to join the Navy, he decided on a different route: the Merchant Navy. This is the worldwide industry of commercial ships that transport goods and people around the world, such as cargo vessels and cruise ships.
Paul said, “I applied to a shipping company, and they gave me different options for my Deck Officer Cadet training, including the Scottish Maritime Academy (SMA).”
Deck Officer training
A Deck Officer is essential to the operation of a vessel, helping to steer and run the ship, and ensure it reaches its destination safely.
The Deck Officer Cadet programme takes three years to complete and consists of five phases which combine classroom learning with training at sea.
Paul moved to Aberdeen two years ago and is currently undertaking Phase 3, studying on shore for his HNC in Nautical Science. His course highlight so far has been getting to work on a vessel during Phase 2.
He said, “I was at sea for five months and I really enjoyed it. The experience helped build my confidence which is important in this role as you need to be able to explain your decisions.”
Studying at the Scottish Maritime Academy
The programme is no small undertaking, with Cadets completing a number of courses throughout. Paul will finish his HNC qualification in just six months, before venturing back out to sea for almost a full year in Phase 4.
He said, “The course is intense, but the lecturers have been really helpful, even staying back at the end of the day to help us. I would be struggling without their support as we cover so many subjects.”
Next steps
After Phase 4, Paul will return to SMA to complete the final few courses and exams before he is officially qualified as a Deck Officer.
He said, “I hope to secure a role in the Merchant Navy and continue to build up my skills. Companies sponsor your place on the course, so I may get lucky and be offered a job as a Deck or Navigation Officer.
“In the future, I’d like to study for my HND in Nautical Science so that I can become a Chief Officer.”
Become a Deck Officer
A career in the Merchant Navy is unique and will take you all over the world. To become an officer in the Merchant Navy, you must complete a cadet training programme.
Places on the Deck Officer Cadet programme at SMA are sponsored by shipping companies, so you need to apply with them directly.