FERMINA SUÁREZ RUIZ

Fermina Suárez Ruiz is a captain in the Marine Navy and has worked with Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea for a long time. She has had a passion for the sea since she was little, due to her family’s connection to the maritime sector. Her professional career began when she started an internship on the Santa Cruz de Tenerife and Super-Fast Levante ships. After her internship, she began her first season as deck officer on the Juan J. Sister vessel, and she has fond memories of the captain and the officers who mentored her progress and helped her adapt to her new responsibilities.

1. What has it been like to develop your professional career at Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea?

I’m very proud to work for Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea. I have always felt supported and embraced by my colleagues, and I have shared many experiences with them on the ship. To live on board, you need to constantly adapt as there is a lot of uncertainty and change, but it’s very rewarding if you work hard.

2. What do you most appreciate about working for Naviera Armas Trasmediterránea?

My colleagues, because of their professionalism, and the experience of working for a company that always supports the crew in every sense of the word. Another great aspect is the personal relationships I have developed with my colleagues and mentors, as, due to the unique nature of the sector, colleagues soon begin to feel like family.

3. Over your long career with the group, you have had the opportunity to captain several different vessels, such as Villa de Agaete, Ciudad Autónoma Melilla, etc. How did you respond to these changes and professional opportunities?

Each vessel and line have its own individual characteristics and you need to work extra hard to adapt to each new situation, but this is something I enjoy. For me, hard work, dedication, constant learning and overcoming your fears are values that help you achieve success both professionally and in life.

4. Do you feel like an inspiration for your colleagues or for women in the sector?

I don’t consider myself an inspiration in the sector, as I’ve always believed that at our shipping company, goals and achievements are connected to hard work, adaptability and equal opportunities for everyone. I’m also grateful to have had the opportunity to grow professionally, surrounded by some great sailors.