News - 19/10/26

Cowes Harbour Commission is proud to celebrate Deputy Harbour Master Jennie Smith, who last week successfully achieved her Harbour Master Certificate (HMCert), marking a significant milestone in her maritime career.

The achievement follows an intensive 18-month assessment programme, demonstrating Jennie’s knowledge, expertise and commitment to the profession.

The Harbour Master Certificate is a nationally recognised professional qualification, aligned with the UK Harbour Master National Occupational Standards and officially recognised by the Maritime & Coastguard Agency (MCA) and the Department for Transport.

As part of the programme, Jennie completed 16 written units covering the wide-ranging responsibilities of harbour management, from legislation and enforcement to pilotage, conservancy, security and personnel management. This was followed by a final oral examination.

The qualification is administered by Port Training Ltd on behalf of the UK Harbour Masters’ Association (UKHMA) and Port Skills & Safety. Successful candidates are entitled to use the post-nominal designation HMCert.

Celebrating women in maritime

Jennie’s achievement is particularly significant in a traditionally male-dominated industry, and we’re incredibly proud to celebrate her success and the contribution women continue to make to the maritime sector.

Harbour management requires a broad combination of technical knowledge, operational experience, sound judgement and leadership. Completing this demanding qualification alongside her responsibilities as Deputy Harbour Master is a testament to Jennie’s dedication and professionalism.

Captain Jon Kidd, Harbour Master at Cowes Harbour Commission, said:

“Jennie’s success is thoroughly deserved and reflects the commitment, professionalism and determination she brings to her role. Harbour management is a complex and demanding profession, and completing this qualification alongside her day-to-day responsibilities is a considerable achievement. I’m delighted to see Jennie reach this milestone.”

Gary Hall, Chief Executive of Cowes Harbour Commission, added:

“We are incredibly proud of Jennie and what she has achieved. This qualification represents a significant investment of time, effort and dedication, and it is fantastic to see that hard work recognised.

“It is important that we recognise talent, support professional development and encourage more women to see the maritime industry as a place where they can build successful and rewarding careers.”

Everyone at Cowes Harbour Commission congratulates Jennie on this fantastic achievement and looks forward to supporting her continued professional development.

Congratulations, Jennie!