Careers

"I’ve been fortunate to work for the GLAs for over 20 years, and it started from a bit of luck really. My PhD was sponsored by the GLAs, which meant I was in the right place to apply for a research officer role in 2003. From this 1-year fix-term project to support European funded projects, my career has seen me leading a range of technical projects, from conducting GPS jamming trials on our vessels to leading new standards development at the IMO. I’ve worked with fantastic colleagues from across the GLAs, and the international community. I get great satisfaction and pride in knowing that we really can make a difference in keeping mariner’s safe, while having some fun at the same time."

“I started my journey with the GLAs as an apprentice CAD technician with Trinity House. While working for the project delivery department I completed a degree in Electronic Engineering before moving to GRAD to be part of the visual signalling team. I share my time between the visual signalling laboratory and light ranges, offices and lighthouses. My work takes me to some of the most remote and picturesque locations, which I very much enjoy. You can often find me by a lighthouse looking for the perfect spot to set up our measurement equipment.”

“I’m relatively new compared to many in the team, but as a second generation GLA employee, this niche industry is one I’ve known since my childhood. My career started in farming, before heading into the automotive industry where I first became engaged in sustainability and strategy development. This led to working with Trinity House as lead on sustainability, before joining the GRAD team in 2025. In my role I’m given responsibility and freedom to challenge the norm, to safely explore new approaches and it’s what keeps me coming back for more. Overall, it’s the diversity, in work, people and experiences that makes every day for me as enjoyable as the last.”