First woman Master in UK marine aggregates sector

Georgina Carlo-Paat completes first tour of duty aboard CEMEX dredger Sand Heron

THE first woman Master in the UK marine aggregates dredging sector, Georgina Carlo-Paat, has recently completed her first tour of duty aboard the CEMEX UK Marine aggregate dredger Sand Heron.

Ms Carlo-Paat is in command of one of four CEMEX dredgers that operate in waters around the UK and near Continent, and which provide approximately 18% of the company’s UK aggregates output.

Her career at sea started in 1990 as the ship’s cook on the USS Gopher State. Such was her love of the sea that she set out to gain the necessary qualifications to join the UK Merchant Navy as an officer, and in 2005 she gained her Master Mariner’s certificate, qualifying her to command any ship anywhere in the world.

Ms Carlo-Paat, who joined CEMEX in April 2015 and was appointed to her current role after successfully completing comprehensive training and induction to the world of aggregate dredging, said it was thrilling to be the first woman Master in the UK marine aggregates dredging sector.

‘The ‘glass ceiling’ has been broken and I would encourage more people, particularly women, to consider this profession,’ she commented. ‘Having a two-year-old son, I would say the work/life balance working for CEMEX is perfect.’

John Miller, director of CEMEX UK Marine, said: ‘Being Master of a dredger like the Sand Heron is a very responsible position. The vessel typically operates off the south coast in a busy shipping area with both commercial and leisure vessels.

‘Georgina is not only responsible for the overall safe operation of the vessel and the well-being of her 12 crew members, but also for ensuring that CEMEX’s wharfs are supplied with the right material to service our customers.’