Gillian Watson navigates her way to marine industry accolade

Gillie, an experienced ports and shipping development specialist has a particular expertise in the navigation and maritime access aspects of port development. Her detailed work on the planning and design of ship navigation channels, manoeuvring areas and the management of real-time and fast-time ship simulation studies made her an ideal candidate to become a fellow of the institute.

Demonstrating a high level of knowledge, competence and commitment involving superior responsibility for the conceptual design, management or the execution of important work in a marine related profession is key to becoming a fellow. This was easy for Gillie to prove, having worked on, or led, over 90 real-time navigation simulation studies, covering a wide range of ship and marine facility types at sites around the world. 

Gillie’s accolade also reinforces the importance of recognising the achievements of women in the marine industries. According to IMarEST, women only account for 30 per cent of the world’s marine researchers and the number is even lower at a decision-making level. Furthermore, only 3 per cent of its members are women, a statistic that has prompted the creation of an IMarEST women’s network. With role models in short supply, HR Wallingford has also implemented a policy of encouraging its world-leading female experts to gain professional accreditation.

Gillian says: “Becoming a fellow has been a very rewarding experience. The process has certainly helped me recognise my own achievements and I hope it will add some extra kudos to our already world-class team. I am also pleased to be flying the flag for women in our industry and hope more female marine engineers will consider applying for their professional certification.”