Good day, dear reader.
My name is Nikishin Alexey. By profession, I am a seafarer, and by rank, I serve as a deep-sea Captain. I was born and grew up in the city of Riga in 1977.
From 1996 to 2000, I studied at Liepaja Maritime College at the Faculty of Ship’s Navigation, from which I successfully graduated in June 2000 as a deep-sea navigator. I came to this profession the same way many other kids did — through parents or relatives who were connected to seafaring life — although, initially, it was not my childhood dream. Everyone in my family thought I would become a professional sports dance coach, as I had dedicated 21 years to this field. But life decided differently, and in 1996 I entered the Maritime College, Department of Navigation.
My first experience at sea was an apprenticeship with the Latvian Shipping Company onboard the vessel Akademik Bochvars under the command of Capt. Jazeps Spridzāns. Once my studies were complete, I obtained my Certificate of Competency with the assistance of the WELL Co office. From that time up to the present, we have been cooperating for more than 20 years. Captain Valery Ostrovsky, another WELL Co seafarer, recommended me to the Company, for which I am very grateful. After receiving my working license, I began my marine career, progressing from Third Mate up to Captain.
It all started quite simply. When I approached the WELL Co office, I was offered a job, as my Certificate of Competency allowed me to work on any type of ship. At that time, the Shipowner- Client of WELL Co granted me approval to begin a contract onboard one of their gas carrier vessels. Within 10 years, I reached the position of Captain, in 2012.
The hardest part for me was probably leaving my young spouse at home, not knowing what might happen. I believe everyone has many stories from their years at sea, but I will not share them here.
I began working for an international company right away. Of course, the main challenge at that time for a young officer was the language barrier. Today, I believe the younger generation sees this differently and has other priorities.
Having cooperated with WELL Co for decades, I would like to highlight what impresses me most in their operations — their prompt response, proactiveness, human touch, and personal approach. These are what make the Company unique. I would certainly recommend WELL Co to other seafarers.
For building your career, there is only one piece of advice: go slow but steady, step by step toward your goal. Everything will work out — even if it takes some time.
I plan to continue working as long as I am capable, and perhaps later complete professional training to become a ship inspector.
Any path you choose is your path, and you should follow it, no matter how difficult it may seem. If I were to start all over again, I would choose the same professional path.
Thank you for your time.
