Cadet Safina Lutchman has made history as Matpal Marine Institute’s first female graduate in Shipboard Navigation, an achievement that underscores her determination and trailblazing spirit. At just 30 years old, Lutchman has carved out a path in Guyana’s maritime sector, a field long dominated by men. Her journey from air traffic control to navigating the high seas is an inspiring testament to resilience and ambition.
“My experience at Matpal has been life-changing. I’ve been able to challenge myself in ways that I never would have expected,” Lutchman said. Her path to this significant milestone began in the classrooms of Brickdam Secondary School and took flight with an eight-year career at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority. “After completion of my secondary education, I pursued a career in aviation at the Guyana Civil Aviation Authority where I worked for eight years,” Lutchman shared, serving as Aeronautical Information Service Officer, Air Traffic Control Assistant, and Air Traffic Controller.
Yet, her aspirations extended beyond aviation. The discovery of oil in Guyana and the rapid expansion of the maritime sector captured her interest. “I wanted to contribute in a significant way,” she explained, driven by her experience providing shoreside support for drillship crews. The decision to enroll in Matpal Marine Institute was a natural step toward deepening her involvement in maritime endeavors.
Lutchman first discovered Matpal’s cadet program while working at JSL International, which actively promoted seafarer training at the institute. Her initial focus was the STCW (Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping) certification, an international standard by the International Maritime Organization (IMO) designed to ensure seafarers are well-equipped for shipboard responsibilities.
After successfully passing aptitude testing, she enrolled in the rigorous program. Her achievements soon piled up, including being awarded a scholarship from the American Caribbean Maritime Foundation, becoming involved in the Girls in Maritime Initiative, and excelling as a standout in her training cohort. “The scholarship is awarded to students who perform well academically and contribute to their community, so to be one of the three selected and the only female was a major accomplishment,” Lutchman noted.
An essential part of her training was an 18-month sea placement with Seacor Marine and G-Boats. “I did deck maintenance, assisted with passage planning and navigation, participated in safety drills, inspected life-saving equipment, and moored/unmoored the vessel,” she described. During a memorable fire drill, she proved her readiness. “I was told to don the fireman gears, and I said yes. It was a little heavy, but I was up to the challenge,” she recounted, earning the respect of her peers.
Lutchman’s career in air traffic control and her work at JSL International equipped her with valuable skills. “My career in air traffic control helped me with discipline, efficiency, and time management. My time at JSL improved my communication skills,” she said. These experiences facilitated her transition to the maritime industry and laid a foundation for her continued success.
Being in a male-dominated field has not been without challenges. “Being in a male-dominated industry will always pose its challenges,” Lutchman admitted. However, her mental fortitude and preparation allowed her to navigate these obstacles with grace and determination. “Hopefully, my story will inspire many more women to join the field,” she said.
For those considering a similar path, Lutchman advises: “Remain humble at every step of the way. It is not an easy road; it requires dedication, determination, and perseverance.”
Her sights are now set on acquiring her Officer in Charge of the Navigation Watch license and her Dynamic Positioning Certification. Ultimately, she aims to obtain a master’s/captain’s license and transition into an administrative role, where she can help shape policies and improve the maritime industry. She also plans to pursue a bachelor’s degree while working as an officer.
