Capt Ann Till forged a career in shipping straight out of school at the age of 16 and rose through the ranks to gain her certification as Master Mariner while working for Maersk Supply Service on their Anchor Handler and Platform Supply fleet.

She is now the Chief Vessel Operator for Ocean Infinity, responsible for turning robotic uncrewed vessels from concept to reality. 

Ocean Infinity has developed hybrid-powered robotic  ships  ranging  from  21-78m in length. Their new Armada Fleet is being designed and built to be remotely-operated for both maritime and payload operations, equipped with a wide range of sensor packages, from hydrographic spreads to full Work-class Remotely Operated Vehicle capability, with all operational and scientific data fed to their state-of-the-art Remote Control Centres.

We talk to Ann about the brave new world of autonomous ships; what its like to be a woman at sea; and the work she does behind the scenes to make shipping a safer and better career for all.