How did you get interested in becoming a Lecturer in Marine Production Engineering
My interest in taking up this profession stemmed from my attraction to the sea. This is usually the same driving reason for most of my students. Education helps them to focus this attraction in a useful way. This is sometimes a problem though because the reality of the profession is often far from the dream you set out with. My interest became more concrete and definite after my training periods at different marine institutes.
Do you have any recommendations for individuals currently studying
I would recommend for students to undertake as many training periods as possible in different companies, which should help them to reach a better understanding of what they want to do.
Does the career field have potential to expand in the future? Is the career field a good option for both students and professionals considering a career switch?
I think and hope so! Aquaculture will expand in the future, in direct response to overfishing. This career field is very broad: opportunities to switch from public institutes to private companies and conversely.
Can you explain your best experience in the profession ?
One of my best experiences in teaching came with a project I carried out with a very motivated student. The project resulted in a successful reproduction, which had never been successfully carried out at the institute before.
What are you reading or watching to stay abreast on industry/market changes, improvements, challenges, etc.?
I try to visit different companies a couple of times a year.
I also read almost everything related to aquaculture e.g. Fish Farming International; Marine Cultures etc. I attend aquaculture seminars, and evaluate the work of students on industry placements (reports and oral examinations)
Do you collaborate with other professionals in Europe or internationally?
I collaborate with Hólar Agricultural College in Iceland in the area of aquaculture research. I undertook my AQUATT student placement at Hólar College.
I participate in other international aquaculture education projects (Croatia, Spain, and Greece)