The award recognises unwavering commitment to promoting career pathways in the maritime industry, particularly to young people through school and youth group visits. In 2024, Claire attended the highest number of events, always eager to support and inspire the next generation of seafarers. Claire believes even small efforts can make a significant impact on young lives, helping to shape their futures.

I am absolutely honoured and humbled to receive the inaugural Careers at Sea Ambassador of the Year award," said Claire. "I love talking about the Maritime Industry and the wealth of opportunities it holds for our young people, and I am very proud of my own career at sea. I can see the impact of school visits and implore everyone to visit just one school or youth group a year and tell them your own story. You never know who you will inspire.

Claire's connection to the maritime industry runs deep. Growing up in Cornwall as the daughter of a Marine Pilot, she followed in her brother’s footsteps by joining the Merchant Navy at the age of 19. She spent 12 rewarding years at sea, working on container ships and later cross-channel ferries, before returning ashore to start a family.

Her career on land has been equally successful, transitioning into a variety of roles within the maritime sector. Claire has worked in Vessel Traffic Services, Operations, and as a Navigation instructor for Cadets. She currently serves as a SHE-Q Officer at Boskalis Marine Services, a division of Boskalis Westminster Limited, where her employer supports her passion for promoting careers in the maritime industry.

Kathryn Neilson, Director of the Merchant Navy Training Board, said

"On behalf of the Merchant Navy Training Board, I would like to extend my heartfelt congratulations to Claire Hogan on becoming the first-ever Careers at Sea Ambassador Award recipient.

Claire’s dedication, passion, and tireless efforts to promote careers at sea have set a benchmark for others to follow. Her work not only inspires the next generation of maritime professionals but also highlights the vital opportunities within this dynamic and rewarding industry.

We are immensely proud to celebrate Claire’s achievements and her significant contribution to the future of maritime careers."

For further information about Careers at Sea and the ambassador programme, please visit www.careersatsea.org/ambassadors