A maritime career can take many directions. For Gretel Desirée Velázquez Peña, that journey has included offshore operations, vessel traffic services, and port security.
In Episode 267 of the Women Offshore Podcast, Gretel shares her experience building a career across several areas of Mexico’s maritime industry.
Gretel began her training as a cadet at the Mazatlán Nautical School. From there, she gained experience working offshore on oil platforms as a Second Deck Officer before moving into vessel traffic services, where she coordinated maritime traffic.
Today, she serves as a Port Facility Security Officer at Hazesa in the Port of Manzanillo, Colima.
Each position has given Gretel a different perspective on maritime operations. Her experience offshore provided a firsthand understanding of life and operations on the water, while her work in VTS gave her insight into coordinating vessel movements and managing maritime traffic. Her current work in port security adds another important layer, focusing on the protection and security of port facilities and operations.
During the conversation, Gretel reflects on what she has learned throughout these transitions and the qualities that have helped her continue developing professionally.
For Gretel, working in maritime requires commitment, discipline, and a genuine sense of vocation. Each role has presented new challenges, but also opportunities to learn and grow.
Her career also reflects the range of opportunities available within the maritime sector. While many people associate maritime careers primarily with working aboard vessels, the industry also depends on professionals working in traffic management, port operations, security, logistics, and many other shoreside roles.
Gretel has also spoken about what it means to build a career as a woman in maritime. Her experience has reinforced the importance of opening doors for others and creating a stronger maritime community where more women can contribute their knowledge and skills.
She was recently recognized by Poseidon Farer as one of the “10 Women Who Inspire in the Mexican Maritime Sector,” highlighting her contribution to Mexico’s maritime industry.
Her story is a reminder that a maritime career does not have to follow a single path. Experience gained in one area can become a foundation for the next opportunity, creating a career that continues to evolve with time.
For professionals considering their next step in maritime, Gretel’s journey offers a practical example of how different experiences can build upon one another.
Recent Comments