Gail Despi

FROM FISHING TO SHIP DESIGNING

At close range, Gail doesn't look like a lad who knows hardships. His fair complexion would give one an impression that he leads a comfortable life. But this 20-year-old "promdi" practically grew up in the sea of Bantayan Island where fishing was his family's only means to eke out a living.

Being the eldest of three, Gail knew hardwork like the back of his hands. Despite the financial support which came few and far between, Gail sees to it that he continues his education in CITE whatever it takes. Now, he is a graduating student in Mechanical Technology and recently absorbed by Dash Engineering** as assistant to the leader engineer.

Gail is assigned in the shipbuilding department, particularly in the outfitting section, where he is able to design sludge tanks, lifeboats, and other life-saving and fire protection devices for a ship. Dash Engineering has been a dream company for him since he set his foot in. "I love to draw ever since and my job here during DTS (dual training system or in-plant training) exposed me to a lot of challenges particularly in (computer-aided) designing," he proudly avered.

One noticeable character Gail would like to build up is self-confidence. "I'm always shy, sir. One employee at Dash got even irritated of me because of this attitude but my boss Melvin is trying his best to expose me a lot of people," Gail confessed as he blushes (which he also pointed as his weakness).

Although designing seemed a solitary work, Gail is slowly coming out of his shell or cubicle so to speak. His latest exposure was a video conferencing with his boss in Japan on a successful project he collaborated with his immediate supervisor.

"At Dash, we were not treated as if we were just trainees. We were given with real tasks. We received frequent lectures and orientation and we were included in the meetings," he proudly said.

Good attendance may not just be the reason why Dash decides to take in Gail and three other trainees for employment even before graduation.

"They think we are dependable," exclaimed Gail. And with great benefits at stake at Dash Engineering, no one can turn down the offer.

Of course, his education at CITE played a big factor too. "CITE molded me to prepare for a job. At CITE, it is always important to have a quality output (in everything you do)."

**Dash Engineering Philippines, Inc. is a subsidiary of Mitsui Engineering & Shipbuilding Co. in Japan. Its business includes Petrochemical Plant, Machinery, Crane, Diesel Engine and Shipbuilding Design.