He’s now worked his way up to a first class pilot and also trains and recruits others. Chad, who expertly navigates and berths ships along and on the Humber, was quickly welcomed into ABP to help settle him into his role. 

He enjoys his rewarding job, saying: “After the first few months of training I found that the role of a pilot was the most rewarding job I have ever done. “I received a lot of responsibility with my new role but my team at ABP were there every step of the way to guide me through. Not only do I get to navigate and berth ships, but I also get to go home every day and see my family which is something seafarers don’t get to do.”

A painter and decorator by trade, Louise Knowles now operates the impressive container spreaders and reach stackers. Before starting work at ABP, Louise had previous port experience of driving tugs as well as lashing and trimming on vessels however sought a better work-life balance and decided to attend an ABP Careers Day event held on the Humber. 

“I started working at the Hull Container Terminal at the end of November 2016 and haven’t looked back. It was genuinely the best thing I’ve ever done. I can now drive five different specialist vehicles, I have a pension, I’m part of a health scheme and I receive help with childcare vouchers. ABP have continued to support me in my desire to continue learning and over the next few months, I'll even be learning how to drive a gantry crane.”

Having predominantly worked in male environments, Louise explains that at ABP she feels like an equal: “I have a great working relationship with all of my colleagues, we have a laugh with each other but we also help each other and I feel respected. Even though I’m the only female working the machines, it doesn’t make a difference to anyone and I can honestly say that I love my job at ABP”.