Former sailor found a new career at the shipyard’s warehouse

When a ship departs from the dock and the propeller spins, memories flood back. For warehouse worker Marcus Blomqvist his career has sailed through the seas and ships, eventually anchoring at Millog Marine & Power’s shipyard, where a great team spirit and closeness to nature make the work rewarding.

Seawater runs in my veins, as my grandfather was a sailor. My own career path on the seas began in elementary school with an internship on Envik’s cement ship. For the next 37 years, I worked on ships around the world, taking on various roles from deckhand and galley assistant, and after completing first mate school, chief mate and captain.

Due to health challenges, my career on seas came to an end, and I had to seek a new direction. I applied for an internship at Millog Marine & Power as a technician through TE-services’ vocational rehabilitation. Working at the shipyard felt like a natural continuation, as I wanted to maintain my connection to the maritime world. My internship at the Teijo site began in late 2022, and after three months of training, I secured a permanent position.

At the end of 2023, I transitioned from technician work to logistics in a warehouse. In my current role, I manage the warehouse, receive shipments, and ensure the delivered materials match the orders. Additionally, I handle spare parts orders and other materials needed for work. My job involves a lot of communication with different stakeholders both within and outside the company. A good memory and organizational skills have been essential.

Working with a glint in the eye

My extensive experience on ships and shipyards around the world has provided me with a solid foundation to understand our overall operational environment. However, at Millog Marine & Power, I have seen the shipyard organization from the inside in a new way, which has been both interesting and educational.

In my experience, the Teijo site has an excellent team spirit, making everyday work enjoyable. We work in a relaxed atmosphere, with a glint in the eye.

The transition from sea to land was hard for me, but the support of my loved ones helped greatly. The opportunity to work at Millog Marine & Power has also brought new enthusiasm, even though adjusting to a regular work schedule and new rhythm of life took some time. Additionally, I had some humorous moments at the beginning learning new professional language. To my surprise, sailors and shipyards have different Finnish terms for things and objects. For example, the ribs of a ship’s hull are called stiffeners at the shipyard and frames (spants) on ships.

Responsibly by the Sea

I am delighted that at the Teijo site, I can still work close to the sea and nature. When a ship leaves the dock, the propeller spins, and the scent of diesel fills the air – memories come rushing back.

At Millog Marine & Power, I particularly appreciate the interesting and varied tasks and the safe work environment. Additionally, it is important to me that the employer strives to operate responsibly and respect the environment. Each of us has a responsibility to maintain the cleanliness of our work environment. As an islander, former leisure diver, and sailor, the underwater world is dear to me, and it is critical that we take care of our waters.

Would you like to be part of our team at Millog Marine & Power? We offer challenging and versatile tasks and flexible career paths to further develop your skills. Read more here.