What do you do here?
I’m a data analyst, I specialise in using Geographic Information Science (GIS) to analyse and present information for internal use and external engagement.
As well as using GIS, I also use other tools and techniques to process, analyse and interpret the large datasets used here at NASH Maritime.
For example, I develop python scripts to QA and process data, use IWRAP to build models to assess vessel collision, allision and grounding risk and, I bring various datasets together (such as onsite survey data, AIS and radar) to create the baseline environment on which assessments are subsequently made.
What drew you to this work?
I became interested in using technology to make sense of data whilst doing an undergraduate degree in geography.
I subsequently did a Masters in GIS at the University of Leicester. The course introduced me to the variety of datasets and techniques available to unpick what’s happening in a particular place, make sense of noise.
On graduating, I applied to work at NASH Maritime and feel fortunate to be able to apply my existing skills and continually develop new ones.
What are you currently working on?
I support many different projects from offshore wind to maritime infrastructure developments.
For example, I’m currently undertaking vessel traffic analysis and IWRAP modelling to understand risk at potential offshore wind farm sites off the coast of Scotland.
I’ve also been helping a project manager understand the use of the River Thames looking at density and spatial use of cross sections along the river.
Last week, I was providing baseline analysis examples for marketing and supporting notices to mariners with visual plots of potential localised impacts to navigation.
What’s your favourite thing about working here?
It has to be the variety. The GIS and Data Team is involved in nearly every project that comes through the door.
Every few weeks I am presented with a different project, together with the challenge as to how we might develop the baseline to understand what shipping and navigation risk is involved.
This means I’m constantly using different techniques and tools to provide the answer.
How does the work you do support NASH Maritime’s vision of a safe, sustainable maritime environment?
Creating the most accurate picture of what is going on in a particular space is crucial to hazard identification and risk management.
Without such baseline understanding, you can’t make an informed judgement or decision. If it’s inaccurate you might misidentify a hazard or, not correctly assess the significance of a potential impact.
The baseline is fundamental to lots of the decisions made, so an inaccurate picture has compounding effects down the line.
What do you like best about working at NASH Maritime?
Three things. Firstly, it’s the team. I feel very lucky to be working with people who are leaders in the field of maritime risk analysis who can support me in my development and learning.
Secondly, the variety of the role. A lot of GIS roles can largely be simple data input and data management, it’s a rare opportunity to be doing such technical work early in your career.
Thirdly, I like seeing how what I create is used. NASH Maritime being a small company, I get to see the value my work/outputs have almost immediately.
What phrase or word sums up NASH Maritime to you?
Risk specialists using accurate data and analysis to make the maritime environment safer.