Setback proves no barrier for Luka as she is announced MCA Officer Trainee of the Year 2024

We are absolutely delighted to announce that Fleetwood Nautical Campus Nautical Science alumnus Luka Haynes has been selected by the Maritime and Coastguard Agency as the MCA Officer Trainee of the Year for 2024.

Luka was presented with her award at the UK Chamber of Shipping's Annual Dinner on Monday 3 February, held at the Grosvenor House Hotel, Park Lane, London.

The judges noted that, after moving from another maritime institute, Luka was able to progress in her studies by undertaking additional work in her own time to bridge knowledge gaps, demonstrating an exceptional work ethic and dedication to her studies. The panel found Luka to possess exceptional resilience and determination in not letting this setback deter her ambition to become an Officer of the Watch. This remarkable ability to adapt and persevere under challenging circumstances is a testament to her unwavering commitment to her career in the Merchant Navy. 

Beyond her academic and vocational achievements, Luka has also emerged as an ambassador for promoting careers at sea. Sharing her experiences, passionately talking about the opportunities available in the maritime industry and showing genuine enthusiasm, Luka has been a great source of inspiration for young people to consider a future in the Merchant Navy. 

The panel noted that Luka consistently demonstrated leadership and a collaborative spirit, often going out of her way to assist peers with revision and during their practical training. Her proactive approach and willingness to share knowledge helped reinforce a supportive learning environment.  Luka’s dedication to preparing for external exams was also a source of inspiration for fellow cadets in the same position.

Captain Neil Atkinson, Head of Fleetwood Nautical Campus said:

"It is a tremendous source of pride for all at Fleetwood Nautical Campus that Luka has been selected as the MCA Trainee Officer of the Year winner for 2024.

Luka has shown great resilience and determination in overcoming the setback she experienced early in her studies and she has excelled in her achievement to qualify as an Officer of the Watch. Alongside this, she also supported and inspired her fellow officer trainees to achieve their potential and has also found time to be an ambassador for careers at sea, inspiring future generations of seafarers. 

Luka’s dedication in completing her studies sends a clear message to potential officer trainees that this qualification is something worth striving for and fighting hard to obtain.

I know she will continue to inspire others during what is sure to be a successful and rewarding maritime career".

Thomas Campbell, General Manager, of Luka’s sponsor Clyde Marine Training said: 

 "We are immensely proud of Luka for being awarded Trainee of the Year. Her exceptional work ethic and dedication to her studies, despite the challenges she faced, are truly commendable. She has not only performed well academically but also emerged as a passionate ambassador for maritime careers, inspiring many. Her leadership and collaborative spirit greatly contributed to a supportive learning environment for her peers. This achievement is a testament to her resilience and an unwavering ambition, shared by many, to pursue a career at sea".

 “The merchant navy industry is a hugely important, dynamic industry with a plethora of exceptional career paths available both offshore and onshore. If anyone is interested in following in Luka’s footsteps into the industry, we at CMT would be delighted to provide more information on our cadetships.”

 This is the 11th time in 18 years that a Fleetwood officer trainee has won this prestigious award – an unrivalled achievement - so credit also to our hardworking, dedicated team from across the college who support our students in all aspects of their cadetship. 

Main photo: 

Left image L-R:  Captain Neil Atkinson, Head of Fleetwood Nautical Campus, Mark Bobby, Chair, Merchant Navy Training Board and Luka.

Right image L-R: Captain Neil Atkinson, Kathryn Neilson, Director, Merchant Navy Training Board and Luka.