When Benjamin Smith joined Foreship UK in July 2024 for his industrial placement year, the MEng Marine Technology student was seeking practical experience to complement his studies at the University of Plymouth. Twelve months later, he returns to full-time education having contributed to complex technical projects, gained valuable site experience, and sharpened skills that will serve him throughout his career..png)
Variety was a defining feature of his placement. “One week I’d be in the office reviewing CAD drawings, the next I’d be on board a ship conducting a stability test or surveying for fuel conversions,” he says.
Across 20 vessel visits, Benjamin supported lightship surveys, inclining tests, and retrofit feasibility studies, including work on fuel conversions and energy-saving technologies. The assignments deepened his technical knowledge and gave him insight into Foreship’s comprehensive support for owners where regulatory and environmental requirements are concerned.
One of his first projects involved supporting the feasibility study of a retrofit AC chiller energy efficiency upgrade onboard a cruise ship. The task provided an early lesson in managing deliverables to deadlines and communicating effectively with stakeholders. Later, he travelled to shipyards and ports to assist in surveys, working alongside classification society representatives and Foreship engineers to measure displacement, stability and compliance metrics.
Back in the office, Benjamin refined his CAD expertise by creating and updating ships regulatory drawings, such as plans for lifesaving and fire control, as well as system diagrams for energy efficiency upgrades. He also contributed to alternative fuel feasibility work, assessing fuel systems and tank arrangements and preparing documentation aligned with industry guidance and classification society requirements.
The placement also extended to other disciplines. Supporting business development, Benjamin researched potential clients, prepared fleet overviews, and contributed to the day-to-day administration of the UK office. A highlight came with a site visit to the Palermo dry dock, where he witnessed marine engineering at scale - including an engine replacement. He described this experience as a lasting reminder of the precision required in large-scale ship conversion and retrofit projects.
“Spending a year with Foreship was a huge boost for my confidence and career direction,” Benjamin reflects. “I came away more knowledgeable, more organized, and more passionate about the maritime industry.”
Commenting on Benjamin’s success, Shaun White, Managing Director of Foreship UK, said, “Benjamin quickly became a trusted member of the team, contributing to complex technical work and supporting the smooth running of the office. We thank him for his efforts and wish him every success as he continues his studies.”
This case study highlights Foreship’s dedication to fostering the careers of marine professionals in their early years. Through initiatives like internships, summer placements, and graduate roles, Foreship cultivates a robust talent pipeline, generating jobs and opportunities within the maritime industry.
If you are interested in becoming a part of Foreship, you can explore all available job openings and submit your application through the careers page here.
