POSSESSING strong values can be a ‘stepping stone’ of transitioning towards higher pay.
Adreu Niudamu stands by this statement and believes his work ethic and dedication to his job as a watchman became the foundation for his current role as chief marine engineer of South Sea Towage Limited (SSTL).
The man from Veidrala in Nakorotubu, Ra said honesty with even the most minute details of a job was crucial.
“I have worked for 23 years in this company,” Mr Niudamu said.
“I started working here back when the company was known as Marine Pacific, now it has changed to SSTL — South Sea Towage Ltd.
“I started as a guard, then I was told to be an assistant to the welder where I held the welding wire. I endured the swearing and jokes.”
Mr Niudamu said even his son was shocked when SSTL staff called him ‘chief’.
“I told him of my humble beginnings, from scrubbing toilets, starting right from the bottom to reaching here”.
Mr Niudamu recalls the day he was first approached to be part of the crew on a ship.
“One day, the ship’s crew was short on one of the trips and I was asked if I wanted to work onboard the vessel.
“I packed enough clothes for a year. We only went for two weeks but the engineers taught me the skills needed.
“That camaraderie amongst the engineers back then was what motivated me. I picked up on whatever I could along the way until I reached my current role as chief engineer.
“I always wanted to work on a boat but didn’t know what to do, none of my family members were seamen and no one pushed me to work on boats. I took the initiative.”
Mr Niudamu said it wasn’t always smooth sailing for him.
“I faced a lot of leadership changes.
“Sometimes I even considered moving to another company, but it was my faith and living a life dedicated to God that made me remain here, and eventually the company went through that change.
“Now, I am also doing what the previous engineers did. I always tell the workers not to hide their skills, share them with those coming after you. That’s your legacy when you leave this earth.”
Mr Niudamu has always stressed the importance of hard work to his four children.
“My son was at Monfort Boys Town, but I saw that he was a bit challenged academically, so I brought him back.
“He is 18 now and driving casually, so I have been thinking of bringing him to come work on the boat. He will start from the bottom just as I did and work his way up. He will have to face the challenges along the way.”
South Sea Towage Limited (SSTL) Chief Marine Engineer Adreu Niudamu.Picture: SUPPLIED
South Sea Towage Limited (SSTL) Chief Marine Engineer Adreu Niudamu.Picture: SUPPLIED