Editor’s note: This article was written by Unlicensed Apprentice Charlotte Chastain as she wrapped up her Phase II training. Thanks to Capt. John M. Coleman of the Maersk Missouri for forwarding the text and the accompanying photo.From the moment I touched down in Newark, N.J., on Aug. 25, 2008, I began an incredible first-time journey as a Seafarers International Union (SIU) Unlicensed Apprentice on the Maersk Missouri, a G-class container vessel.
By way of introduction, my name is Charlotte S. Chastain, and I am completing the last few days of Phase II of the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education’s unlicensed apprentice program. The school is located in Piney Point, Md.
I am a middle-aged woman and have raised two college-educated children. At this stage of my life, I am seeking a career change after working as a legal administrative assistant for more than 25 years to an occupation that will be more fulfilling, challenging, and stimulating.
When an acquaintance told me about the Paul Hall Center’s training program to become a U.S. Merchant Mariner, I called Piney Point’s admissions office and asked for information and requirements to be accepted into their school. Everything clicked and within a few months’ time, I was on a journey towards a new career and new way of life.
Phase I of the program consists of an intense three-month course divided into two-week classes, including Lifeboat, Fire Fighting, CPR/First Aid, and working in the galley. I adjusted to Piney Point’s dorm life and rigorous daily schedule. After completing Phase I, apprentices are assigned to a ship via the manpower office. Phase II consists of a minimum of 90 days on board a vessel and emphasizes on-the-job training. Unlicensed apprentices are assigned a minimum of 30 days in each department – deck, engine and steward.
In order to return to the school and begin Phase III, I am required to complete and submit an extensive “sea project” where I answer questions and draw diagrams of the vessel relating to all three departments. Also, an evaluation is completed by the ship’s master and each department head.
For Phase III, the unlicensed apprentice returns to Piney Point for a seven-week training period. At this time, the apprentice decides the department in which to work. After graduation, the Paul Hall Center assigns each mariner a four-month trip on a ship in their chosen department.
As a novice in this industry, when I first arrived to the Maersk Missouri, I was in awe at the massive size of the containership. I stood at the gangplank looking up and felt very excited about embarking on this new chapter in my life. The first day was spent unpacking, filling out paperwork and familiarizing myself with my new “home.”
I was assigned to the engine department for my first 30 days. On the second day, I reported to duty at 7:45 a.m. and met everyone in the department. Next, I took a tour of the engine room. I was surprised at its enormous size and numerous decks and ladders. How in the world was I ever going to learn my way around? I knew I was going to have to prove my worth and value in each department. I jumped in “full speed ahead.”
For the first few days, I helped the QMED with the daily “soundings.” As I became more familiar with my rounds, I could record the soundings on my own. I was introduced to the jobs of an entry-level worker, and was trained to wire brush, paint, and clean various areas of the engine room. It took me a while to get accustomed to the heat. Needless to say, September was hotter than anyone could imagine, especially given that the Missouri was making its Middle East run.
The second month was spent in the deck department. I trained under very talented and knowledgeable “deckies.” The chief mate, bosun, and ABs were patient teaching me ship/sailing terminology and deck procedures. I began each day at 6 a.m. and saw magnificent sunrises.
There was always a painting or cleaning project. Before long, I was recognized as a neat and fast painter. I learned to help dock and undock on the bow, participated in safety and fire drills, pirate watches, and practiced steering the Missouri on the bridge.
My final month was occupied in the steward department beginning at 5:30 a.m. each day. Having spent my life cleaning, cooking, and doing for others, I felt at ease in the galley. The three-man steward department took care of the Missouri’s entire house. I learned many of the steward’s, chief cook’s and SA’s duties and was taught many tips of the trade. I enjoy cooking and received many fabulous recipes from the chief cook. Health, safety, cleanliness and sanitation were stressed daily.
People often ask me why I want to become a merchant mariner and work at sea. I respond that presently I have no ties or obligations at home, and have always had a sense of adventure for travel and a deep appreciation for the water and the outdoors. Also, I am an artist and painting is my passion. I will have inspiring subjects for my paintings. In port, I was able to go exploring. I never dreamed that I would be sailing to ports in the Mediterranean Sea, Suez Canal, Red Sea, Persian Gulf, and Indian Ocean.
From what I have been told by my fellow shipmates, it is going to be hard for any future ship I sail to top the Maersk Missouri! As I reflect on my time as an unlicensed apprentice, I am grateful for all that I have learned, experienced, and seen. I am also very fortunate to have worked with some wonderful people. My first taste of what it is to be a U.S. Merchant Mariner exceeds my expectations. I want to thank Maersk, the school and the crew of the Missouri for helping me achieve my goal.
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