Inspiring Journey of India’s First Female ETO | Romeeta Bundela
Romeeta Bundela’s inspiring journey from an electrical engineering graduate to becoming a Junior Electrical Superintendent in Maersk is truly remarkable. Her story showcases determination, resilience, and breaking gender barriers in a male-dominated field.
Let’s check out Romeeta Bundela’s cool journey, where she tackled every problem with a strong spirit and turned each solution into a path to success.
Inspiring Journey Of 2nd Indian Girl ETO Romeeta Bundela | Life Of ETO On Ship
Introduction
- In 2017, Romeeta Bundela became the first Indian woman to sail with Maersk as an ETO. By 2020, she had risen to the rank of Senior ETO.
- Romeeta Bundela became the first lady and the youngest Electrical Superintendent at Maersk’s Electrical and Automation Department. Her career goal is to take on leadership roles in the electrical and automation maritime field, using her problem-solving skills and management abilities to make the most of available resources.
- Her journey is a testament to breaking boundaries, achieving firsts, and advancing the maritime industry. Romeeta’s story serves as an inspiration for those in the maritime field, highlighting the possibilities within this traditionally male-dominated industry.
Educational Background
Romeeta completed her education in electrical engineering from North Maharashtra University, and her journey in the maritime world started when she decided to pursue a course in Electrical Technical Officer (ETO) at the Tolani Maritime Institute. This decision marked the beginning of an extraordinary career.
For Romeeta, the maritime industry wasn’t her first choice. She pursued a variety of competitive exams before venturing into the world of the merchant navy.
Her journey reflects her perseverance to achieve her dreams, despite facing initial doubts from her own family. While her father was supportive, her mother was initially fearful of the male-dominated industry. Yet, Romeeta’s determination prevailed, and her parents eventually left her at the airport to pursue her dreams.
Career at Sea
After completing her ETO course, Romeeta embarked on a remarkable journey at sea, spending 4.5 years with Maersk, one of the world’s largest shipping companies. Her initial years were filled with challenges and opportunities to prove herself in a field dominated by men.
An exciting opportunity presented itself for Romeeta as she made the transition from a seafarer to working offshore. She embraced this change and took on the role of a Junior Electrical Superintendent. This transition showcased her adaptability and her dedication to personal and professional growth.
The Beauty of Nature at Sea
One aspect of the maritime industry that Romeeta cherishes is the connection with nature. She fondly remembers her moments on the ship, when she would venture forward or after dinner to savor the fresh air and the natural environment. She highlights that people pay for such experiences, but those working on ships not only get paid but also enjoy these moments for free.
The Quest for Growth
Romeeta recognizes that there needs to be more growth in the ETO position at sea. As a result, she made the bold decision to transition to shore-based work. This move reflects her desire to break free from the limitations and monotony associated with the role.
Romeeta’s Maritime Challenges and How She Overcame Them
Overcoming Challenges
Throughout her journey, Romeeta faced several challenges, including skepticism from senior officers. She recalls a senior officer’s initial reluctance to accept a female cadet on board. However, she turned this situation around with her hard work and dedication, earning the officer’s respect and appreciation over time.
Gender Bias
Being a woman in a predominantly male-dominated field, Romeeta may have encountered gender bias, skepticism, or stereotypes that hindered her professional growth.
Solutions: Romeeta’s solution may have been consistently demonstrating her knowledge, skills, and competence, earning respect through her work. Additionally, promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace could help create a more inclusive environment.
Isolation at Sea
Working on a ship for extended periods can be physically and emotionally challenging. The isolation from family and friends may have been a significant difficulty.
Solutions: Building a strong support network within the maritime community and maintaining communication with loved ones through technology could alleviate feelings of isolation. Engaging in on-board activities and keeping a healthy work-life balance can also help.
Technical Challenges
The maritime industry involves complex technical systems and machinery. As an ETO, Romeeta may have faced intricate technical challenges that required quick and effective solutions.
Solutions: Continuous learning and staying updated with the latest technology and equipment is crucial. Collaboration with colleagues and senior officers for guidance and training can be beneficial.
Work-Life Balance
Balancing the demands of maritime work with personal life and family commitments can be a significant challenge.
Solutions: Maintaining a work-life balance requires planning, communication, and setting boundaries. It’s important to allocate time for personal life and engage in activities that provide relaxation and rejuvenation during shore leaves.
Managing Stress
Working in the maritime industry can be demanding, with high-pressure situations and long hours.
Solutions
Developing stress management techniques, such as mindfulness, exercise, and relaxation methods, can help manage stress levels. Seeking support from colleagues and maintaining a healthy work-life balance are also important.
Romeeta’s ability to overcome these challenges would have been a testament to her resilience and determination, serving as an inspiration to others facing similar difficulties in the maritime industry.
Conclusion
- Romeeta Bundela’s inspiring journey from an electrical engineering graduate to a Junior Electrical Superintendent in the maritime industry exemplifies the power of perseverance, adaptability, and dedication.
- Her story embodies the spirit of progress and empowerment in a traditionally male-dominated field. As Romeeta continues to make history and achieve new milestones, she leaves a lasting legacy for future generations in the maritime industry, proving that with dedication and perseverance, any challenge can be overcome on the path to success.
Disclaimer :- The opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author and may not necessarily reflect those of Merchant Navy Decoded. We cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and disclaim any responsibility for it. Data and visuals used are sourced from publicly available information and may not be authenticated by any regulatory body. Reviews and comments appearing on our blogs represent the opinions of individuals and do not necessarily reflect the views of Merchant Navy Decoded. We are not responsible for any loss or damage resulting from reliance on these reviews or comments.
Reproduction, copying, sharing, or use of the article or images in any form is strictly prohibited without prior permission from both the author and Merchant Navy Decoded.
Inspiring story
We are glad that you loved the journey. To learn more about ETO check out our free ETO Guidance Series.