It was Cindy Hao’s craving for variety and travel that first drew her to the maritime industry, where each day brings new challenges and opportunities outside the confines of an office.
Unlike many who enter the sector through naval architecture or engineering routes, Cindy’s journey began with a foundation in materials science. “I didn’t want a fixed 9-to-5 desk-based job in the same place with the same people,” she explains. “I enjoy getting out, meeting different people, and working in various locations.”
She was initially inspired by meeting several surveyors who displayed extensive knowledge and dedication. “Their responsible work ethic left me in awe. I wanted to be a surveyor like them, ensuring products are manufactured and vessels are built according to all relevant regulations and class rules,” she recalls. This ambition has led her to a 16-year tenure at LR as a Materials Equipment and Components Certification (MEC) surveyor.
One of the more testing moments in Cindy’s career came when she was tasked with overseeing the transition of a product line from France to China. The shift required training an unfamiliar workforce, introducing LR regulations, and addressing numerous operational challenges. “Employees in China were not familiar with the products or inspection processes, and I had to answer a lot of questions and guide them through the requirements,” she recalls. The project demanded patience, resilience, and extensive travel.
Cindy is passionate about encouraging more women to join and thrive in the maritime sector. “Own your expertise – technical competence earns respect,” she advises. “Seek mentors, build resilience, and don’t shy away from field roles.”
She acknowledges that outdated perceptions still act as barriers, with some viewing maritime as a “man’s job.” However, she has seen a significant shift over the years, with more companies prioritising diversity and more women stepping into surveyor roles across the industry.
Cindy believes that physical fitness and strong communication skills will be essential for future generations of female surveyors. “The job poses significant physical challenges, especially in summer. Every day can involve long drives, surveys in workshops, and interactions with clients, shipyards, and product owners,” she explains. The ability to navigate these environments with confidence is crucial.
She also highlights the importance of policies that support gender diversity, such as the IMO International Day for Women in Maritime, as well as flexible working arrangements that help balance professional and personal commitments. However, she acknowledges that retention remains a challenge due to the demanding nature of the job.
Cindy firmly believes that increasing female representation in leadership roles brings substantial benefits to the industry. “Diverse leadership fosters innovation,” she says. “Women often approach risk assessments and team management differently, leading to more balanced decision-making.”
