Recently, I had the most enjoyable “training” session of the year—not with superintendents or technical experts, but with a group of curious six-year-olds. As part of a standalone activity to show what parents do at work, I presented the fascinating world of shipbuilding and shipyard safety to a kindergarten class.
The goal? To introduce the next generation to what goes into building and maintaining ships, while also highlighting the importance of safety in a fun and engaging way.
A Day of Firsts
This was a completely different audience from my usual crowd. No technical jargon, no cost analysis, and no detailed repair specs—just wide-eyed curiosity and endless questions.
We started with a time-lapse video showing the construction of autonomous Mayflower aluminum hulls. The kids were captivated, watching the ship come to life piece by piece. To keep things interactive, I explained how ships are a bit like giant trucks, each designed for specific purposes, from carrying goods to exploring the seas.
The Hits of the Day
- Trying Out the Gear
The kids had a blast putting on safety helmets. Seeing their little heads bob under those oversized helmets was priceless! It sparked conversations about why we wear protective gear in shipyards, from helmets to safety boots, earplugs, and goggles. - Coloring and Creativity
The real star of the day was the ship-themed coloring book I brought along. Seeing their creativity and excitement as they brought ships to life with crayons reminded me of the joy of sharing knowledge in any form. - Gifts with a Purpose
As a small takeaway, each child received a pair of earplugs—symbolizing the importance of hearing protection in noisy environments—and a big smile.
Why This Matters
This experience wasn’t just about showing kids what their parents do; it was a reminder that engaging presentations can be tailored to any audience. Whether I’m explaining shipyard safety to six-year-olds or breaking down complex drydocking processes for superintendents, the key is to make the content relevant, fun, and easy to understand.
A Challenge for You
If you’re passionate about what you do, consider sharing it with others—whether they’re industry peers or curious young minds. There’s something incredibly rewarding about inspiring curiosity and planting the seeds of interest, no matter the audience.
For me, this session was a refreshing change from the usual technical discussions. It reminded me of the universal appeal of ships, safety, and the stories they carry. And who knows? Maybe one of those kids will grow up to design the next autonomous vessel.
Would you take up the challenge of explaining your work to a six-year-old? Trust me, it’s a test of true expertise and creativity.
#Shipbuilding #Outreach #MaritimeEducation #EngagingAudiences #SafetyFirst
