Fueled by a passion for geography and the natural world, Amelia’s career has seen her travel the world and discover areas closer to home she never knew existed.
Following a degree in Marine Geography at Cardiff University, Amelia undertook an industry placement working on surveys within the offshore sector, mapping the seabed and coastline for marine energy projects. It was here that she found an enthusiasm for hydrographic surveying, enjoying the unique and ever changing challenges of the specialism.
After five years of working at sea, Amelia’s next role saw her move back to the Tees Valley as Hydrographic Surveyor at PD Ports.
“I loved working offshore, but I always knew that if there was an opportunity to work in the ports industry, I’d grab it with both hands. When PD Ports approached me with an open role, I saw it as a chance to continue working in the industry I love while having a more involved home life.
“The surveys we conduct help us gain a better understanding of the environments we work in and are crucial for maintaining safe and navigable waterways.”
The return to where she grew up also brought a better work life balance as well as the chance to explore the industry and evolving landscape on her doorstep.
“Even though I’ve lived in the area most of my life, there are parts of the Tees I gained a whole new appreciation for once I was out on the survey vessel and monitoring the river to the extent that we do. In addition, the wildlife we are privileged enough to encounter is always an enjoyable bonus.
“PD Ports are great with flexible working too, and the fact that we’ve been able to keep that opportunity post-pandemic has been really valuable. I certainly know I’d feel more able to stay in my role if and when I choose to have children. It’s also a benefit to have regular hours, as it’s quite common to work shifts around the tides for surveyors. This allows me to have more of a social life outside of work.”
With the needs of the planet being more important than ever, Amelia’s role is also helping to protect our environment and ensure the future is safeguarded for generations to come.
“As of 2024, only a quarter of the Earth’s seafloor had been mapped, showing that there’s still much more to be discovered. Surveying our oceans allows us to utilise our maritime resources sustainably while also working to conserve them for future generations.
“Looking at the broader applications of hydrography, bathymetric surveys also provide essential information to support the development of everything from quays, to breakwaters, flood management schemes and coastal erosion defences.”
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