Mair distance for young skipper Steven
AGED 19, fisherman Steven Mair has become the youngest in Shetland to achieve the Gold Standard under-16m skipper’s ticket, which allows him to fish beyond 20 nautical miles from shore.
His training began when he completed his SVQ Level 2 Marine Vessel Operations (Fishing) in 2006 while working on board local fishing boat Sharyn Louise (LK250).
Steven then took advantage of the free training offered at the NAFC Marine Centre to successfully complete the necessary stability awareness, five-day bridge watchkeeping and two-day engine-room watchkeeping courses.
It was this collection of certificates that led him to apply for the under-16m skipper’s ticket through Shetland Fisheries Training Association (SFTA).
SFTA training co-ordinator Caroline Hepburn said: “I’m delighted that this ambitious and dedicated young fisherman has maximised the opportunities available to him in terms of free training to gain this valuable certificate.
“All the courses required for the under-16m ticket are available at the NAFC Marine Centre during the winter months and are free of charge to eligible fishermen who hold the four mandatory safety courses.”
Steven, who is now fishing with the Banff-registered Scotia, said: “I’m really pleased to achieve this ticket. It was very handy that the courses were available in Scalloway and I’m looking forward to going back to the NAFC Marine Centre next year to gain my Class 2 Fishing Vessel Engineering ticket as well.”
