‘The company’s motto – Damen – Your Partner in Maritime Innovation – was an inspiration for me, and the job shadow experience I was afforded proved these words to be true. They reflect Damen’s ‘commitment to providing innovative and sustainable solutions for their customers’.
This is according to Grade 12 maritime student, Jordan Heyburgh, who spent a few days doing a ‘’workshadow’ at Damen Shipyard in Cape Town during his June 2024 holidays.
Jordan, whose studies at Lawhill are sponsored by the General Botha Old Boys Bursary Fund, has an interest in ship building and enjoys working with his hands.
“Hands-on practical jobs appeal to me and I really enjoyed seeing how the design blueprint on paper in the office becomes a ship moored in the harbour, built to set specifications.”
The focus of his job shadowing at on board the Biro 3 vessel was quality control. Here he was mentored by a Quality Controller, Marine Fitter, Safety Manager, Marine Plumber, and involved in safety inspections of boats, the aluminium room, workshop and tool shop.
Jordan observed first-hand the importance of safety.
“Everyone pays attention to hazard signs which are displayed everywhere. Safety is a fundamental discipline and focus in the shipping industry. “
He also learned about the what, where, how and why of different materials used to build and maintain a vessel.
Overall, the three days – 18 to 20 June 2024 – he spent at DAMEN was some of the most enjoyable during this holiday.
’The staff and crew were friendly, happy, joyful, energetic and share a strong connection. They showed an interest in me and I was able to answer certain questions, offer comments and ask questions. I was made to feel part of the team.’
Jordan is appreciative of the opportunity made possible for him by the staff and crew members from Damen and the leadership, inspiration and passion of the management of the Lawhill Maritime Centre.
ends