Martin Smyth Ship Science, 1986

Marine Surveyor/Boat Designer; Partner in Crawford & Massiah Associates

Hi, I'm Martin Smyth and I studied Ship Science within Engineering and the Environment at the University of Southampton.

When I was a little kid, I used to enjoy drawing pictures of boats – and I thought, "Hey, if I can get a job and make a living from doing this, why not?" I found out later on that naval architecture/ship science is not quite as simple as this though…

What do you do?

I do surveys on just about anything that floats (as well as what doesn't occasionally…), also damaged cargoes, and, very occasionally (not often), I get a little design commission. If I have any spare time in between I design and build dinghies and go sailing whenever I can.

What's the best part of your job?

I am basically self-employed and am my own boss – although this often means that I work all hours, and I am always trying to catch up with my paperwork.

Why did you go into this career?

When I was a little kid, I used to enjoy drawing pictures of boats - and I thought, "Hey, if I can get a job and make a living from doing this, why not?" I found out later on that naval architecture/ship science is not quite as simple as this though.

What is your education/experience?

Up to age of 16: At school in Barbados, I got a few O levels (dinosaur version of GCSEs). After 16: Some more school, then technical college and finally ended up at Southampton doing Ship Science.

What was your first job?

This was working in a design office as a junior draughtsman/tea boy/model boat maker (we had to wear many different hats), where I learnt a lot about the practical aspects of boat design.

Why did you choose Southampton?

Because I was already living there anyway. And everywhere else that had naval architecture courses was either in London (no thanks!) or was way up north and much colder.

What was the best part about studying at Southampton?

There is a good social life. Also, the University is fairly compact. The Ship Science department was tiny in comparison to other faculties, hence everyone knew each other, which was a nice aspect.

What is your advice to potential students?

Follow your dreams and go for it!

What are your hobbies?

Sailing - in fact, pretty much anything to do with the sea really!