Isla Gale has become the first female to obtain the Certificate of Competency as Deck Officer Class 2 in Fishing.
The 20-year-old from Sulby passed her oral exams and obtained her certificate.
She was the former Trainee Fisherman of the Year in 2022, and began her career scalloping in the Isle of Man.
Since then she has become a passionate ambassador for the island and the fishing community.
Next Steps
She actively encourages more women and young people to consider a career in the fishing industry and advocates strongly for safety at sea.
“I’m over the moon to have qualified and excited about the next steps in my career,” said Isla.
“It’s been a tough road—not only spending extended periods in Scotland at NESCOL studying and being away from my family, friends, and my dog Shorty, but also managing the doubters and even my own doubts at times.
Isla Gale
“But I’ve learned so much over the last few years in college—about myself as a person and as a potential skipper.”
Isla expressed her gratitude for the support of her family, friends, and tutors, emphasising the importance of perseverance.
“I’d urge anyone else going down this route to stick with it, as it’s definitely worth it in the end,” she added.
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