A Letter from Someone Who Walked the Same Corridors 55 Years Ago
- DMET Cadets
- 3 days ago
- 3 min read
Updated: 1 day ago
The Legacy You Belong To
DMET holds a unique renown in the maritime world, built solely on the achievements of its alumni. Within a decade of passing out, many have held prominent positions: Chief Engineers at the heart of shipping companies, surveyors in classification societies, global business heads, shipowners, consultants to top companies and advisers to the IMO.
From Caterpillar to Butterfly
Like the caterpillar’s transformation into a butterfly, cadets enter raw and uncertain, shaped by parents, school and society, yet seeking fame and fortune. Few initially think of marine engineering, knowing the sacrifices and challenges involved.
The Path Was Never Easy
Decades ago, career choices were limited to the Armed Forces, DMET, Dufferin and the exclusive IITs. Selection was fiercely competitive, with entrance exams and interviews filtering thousands of applicants. For many from lower-middle-class backgrounds, DMET offered a path to financial stability and upward mobility.
Your First Year Will Test You
Today’s cadets come from more varied socio-economic backgrounds and face higher fees but have still chosen this demanding profession. The first year remains the hardest adjusting to discipline, rigours and distance from home. Some affluent cadets may wonder if it is worth the discomfort; for others, it is their only path forward.
Why I Never Gave Up and Friendships That Outlast Everything
I came from modest means. My family pooled scarce resources to send me to DMET, so giving up was never an option. I realised early that all I needed was to pass everyone starting as a Fifth Engineer with the same pay. What mattered most was discipline, duty and the ability to rise after every fall, a quality forged in these four years and invaluable at sea.
The friendships you make now will last a lifetime. Enjoy your four years, but remember that absorption of knowledge is essential. Unlike my time, when passing was enough to secure a job, today’s scarcity of positions means higher marks are vital.
A Better Tomorrow Is Coming
Better times will come as shipping trends shift towards smaller, more numerous vessels, increasing employment opportunities. India’s young, skilled workforce will play a decisive role in the future ensuring you are part of that defining demographic.
At Sea: The Real Learning Begins
At sea, your college training will be basic. As a Junior Engineer, immerse yourself in assisting seniors and learning every skill possible. The first year at sea will be as challenging as your first year in college add to that loneliness, homesickness and seasickness. Combat these by keeping two notebooks: a diary of daily events and a technical record of manuals, sketches and problem-solving methods.
My First Ship Was My Best Teacher
I was never a brilliant cadet but compensated by working long hours. My first ship was old and trouble-prone, forcing me to learn fast. I filled twelve notebooks with breakdown notes lessons that not only helped me clear exams on the first attempt but shaped my competence for decades. If your first ship is troublesome, embrace it as a learning opportunity.
Never Stop Learning and Face the Challenges Ahead
Never settle into complacency; aim to learn something new every day. Marine engineering is one of the most satisfying professions, comparable in fulfilment to an ISRO scientist’s work. In the current climate, final-year results and campus interviews are critical.
Unfortunately, many companies now bypass trainee engineers, seeking Fourth Engineers with experience, creating a gap in the training pipeline. Some forward-looking companies still sponsor cadets, but too few. The competition is both domestic and global, especially against the Philippines.
Your Four Years Will Stay With You Forever
Remember discipline, resilience and continuous learning will carry you through. Cherish your four years here; they will remain some of the most significant memories of your life.
I wish you all the very best. For questions, I am available at ranganathan.blog@gmail.com.
