Ellie started her career in maritime with a pre-cadetship at South Shields Marine School before moving on to working onboard cruise ships when she was only sixteen, but left after feeling that it wasn’t the career for her.
“I got to see some very beautiful parts of the world and experience a new way of life. After leaving my cadetship, I found part-time work in retail, hospitality, and even took on a role as a bridal sales consultant.”
Ellie began studying Costume Design at the Northern School of Art. During this time, she saw the advertisement for her current role at PD Ports. She was hesitant to start her career all over again, but intrigued at what the job could offer.
“My dad had worked along the river as a lorry driver. It was because of him that I knew how busy it can be and how many different operations take place here. I was quite interested in seeing how different it was to work shoreside versus onboard the ships.”
“I think part of me expected working in the port to take me back fifty years. If anything, it is the complete opposite,” she says. “I received such a warm welcome when I joined the company, not just from my immediate colleagues, but from so many people along the river. It didn’t take long for me to feel part of the team here.”
“I’ve found especially on the river Tees, that this line of work has a community feel to it. I think it is very important to build relationships with everyone around you and make a good name for yourself.”
Although Ellie’s career in the industry has been short, she believes it’s the best place for her and is a strong advocate for others to join the port industry.
“There are so many different jobs available within the port industry and I truly believe that there’s something for everyone.”
“There is a lot of training available due to the nature of the work, so don’t be worried that you might not have the experience that you think is needed.”
Looking back on her own journey, she said, “A change in career is not as scary as I thought. It might take a few times to get it right, but you should always be open to change and try to keep as many doors open as possible.”