Meet Shenae Wales

Shenae is a tutor for the aquaculture programmes at the Nelson Marlborough Institute for Technology (NMIT). She primarily teaches the certificate levels, training students on how to set up systems, maintenance of equipment, husbandry skills including greenshell mussel larval runs and salmon/trout feed trials. She is also doing her postgraduate diploma which includes research on Sea Cucumbers as a potential IMTA species.

What do you enjoy most about your role?

“ My role is really different to my last role in the industry, so the new challenges are really exciting to me. I am really passionate about supporting the industry and sharing the enthusiasm with people who are getting involved in our industry and teaching them the foundational skills needed to be work ready. ”

“ I am really excited for WoAA, meeting other woman in the industry, make new friends and potentially collaborate on new ventures! “

How did you come to be involved in aquaculture?

“ I wanted to get into marine biology at high school and was introduced to the Aquaculture industry then. I have been lucky enough to have had a job in the industry in my last year of high school. I have a bachelor's degree in Aquaculture and Marine conservation. ”

What is something you are passionate about?

“ Physical and mental health it is so important <3 “

Do you have any advice or support for women working in or looking to work in aquaculture in Aotearoa?

“ There are far more woman in the industry than you think. There is a job that is suited to almost every kind of woman, we can do anything a bloke can do, if not more! The industry is really supportive and there are always ways to continue to grow and develop. “

What is your favourite seafood?

“ Who can pass up a scallop! “

What do you like to do in your spare time?

“ I love going to the gym and completing in obstacle racing events. Summer is filled with water sports, like wakeboarding. In winter, I love to try to keep active, with strength training and roller derby. “