Captain (http://kennebeccapatain.blogspot.com) and is a able which include the people whom you are leading. A U.S. Coast Guard licensed Master, Unlimited, all oceans, lot of times I see these so-called leaders that always think currently sailing as master of a PCTC (Pure Car Truck their way is the only way to tackle a problem. Carrier) worldwide. "My first trip was a tough one. It There are usually several different ways to solve situatook me about three times longer to take care of routine tions that come up and it is valuable to have the flexibilimatters than it did on subsequent trips. ty to look at things from all angles. It is still important to Things like port arrival documents, payroll, messages be strong in your convictions. and reports. My advice to someone who plans to sail capHowever, to be receptive to new ideas and new ways to tain: see if you can get some experience at the required improve is what makes a true leader. This takes self-conficlerical work. Also it's very important to avoid making dence and security in oneself." changes on your first trip, the captain you relieved is Finally, the one piece of essential advice I have for all smarter then you think." leaders is to find a mentor or confidant who can help you Jamie Hutton is Commissioning Chief Engineer for the through some of the unanticipated challenges of the role. Office of Marine and Aviation Operations (OMAO) Leadership can be lonely business and sharing your expeNOAA, Maine Maritime graduate and USCG licensed riences with someone you trust and respect will make it all Chief Engineer Unlimited Motor. "I worked on a few a little easier. ships where the chiefs and captains were threatened by Let's hope President Obama can do this, because he's subordinates with better skill levels or abilities. I some- going to need all the help he can get. times felt the same threat for the first couple of years that I sailed. Finally I realized the obvious, that shipmates will often have at least one skill set in which they excel and are more capable than you. Don't discourage them. Let them run with it. With ships becoming more complex, you need crews who have passion, focus, and expertise in several directions. One man can't be an expert in all areas anymore with the growing complexity of equipment and systems. Enjoy having a highly qualified team. It NO ONE KNOWS MARINE FENDERS LIKE SCHUYLER. will make you look good." For nearly 60 years, we've designed and built laminated-rubber marine fenders for tugs, Captain Wendy Kitchell holds a barges and workboats, and for docks, piles and piers. Our fenders are custom-engineered USCG 500 Ton Masters license and has so you get the right mix of flexibility and strength. They're affordable, long-lasting and low-maintenance, too. And they're made from 100% recycled truck tires. a wide range of maritime experiences from traditional tall ships, including LEARN MORE ABOUT OUR INNOVATIVE MARINE FENDERS. Schooner America, to racing yachts in For Midwest or West Coast customers: For East Coast or Gulf Coast customers: Schuyler Rubber, Woodinville, WA Schuyler Maritime, Broussard, LA the Caribbean to building high-tech car1-800-426-3917 1-866-347-9445 bon race boats. "I believe listening and really paying attention to what is happening around you helps a leader. It's exactly what they teach you in Bridge Resource Management, situational A GREEN COMPANY SINCE 1950 � WWW.SCHUYLERRUBBER.COM awareness and utilizing the tools avail-
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