As Taiwan’s first female maritime pilot, Huang Chao-ling battles wind and waves every day as she guides ships safely into port. Her profession is high-risk and ultra-specialized, requiring years of experience at sea. Huang’s remarkable career is featured in Episode 50 of "The Soul of the Craftsman," a video series produced by the General Association of Chinese Culture.
As strong winds blow and the rope ladder sways, maritime pilot Huang Chao-ling clambers up the ship, so that she can guide it into port. In the harsh elements, getting on and off the boat can be fraught with danger.
Huang Chao-ling
Maritime pilot
I remember this one time, near South Africa. We encountered waves 20 to 30 meters high. I feared they would break the ship. You’ve got no choice but to overcome such challenges, because you’re all alone out there.
From far across the ocean, a massive ship enters port, fully loaded with crew and cargo. The moment of a ship’s arrival is critical, requiring a pilot familiar with the port. A pilot’s job is physically taxing, and it demands a good eye for radar, GPS, tides, and seasonal winds. Every day, pilots battle the wind and waves, fighting against nature to ensure that ships enter and leave ports safely.
Huang sailed part-time in college, and has since worked her way up from crew to captain. Seven years ago, she passed the government’s exam for maritime pilots, becoming the first woman to do so. She’s made her name in a male-dominated industry, breaking the glass ceiling to reach the top of her profession.
Hsiao Bi-khim
Vice president
Let us continue to work hard, to ensure that every ship docks safely and can sail out into the world with confidence. Every hardworking person in Taiwan is a vital member of the team that protects this nation.
There are everyday heroes in every community. The General Association of Chinese Culture tells their stories in “The Soul of the Craftsman” series, which has now aired its 50th episode.
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