Catrine discusses why aquaculture is a much more attractive industry for women than it used to be, what diversity means to her…

• What attracted you to the aquaculture industry?

It was kind of by accident that I ended up in the aquaculture industry, but my grandfather was a fisherman, and he would always bring us along when we came visiting. I can still remember how I, as a child, found it exiting to open the fish to see what they had eaten. Later, I’ve found that aquaculture is an ever-evolving industry which means that you need to follow the changes and new challenges that comes along. This keeps the industry interesting to work within as well as it keeps me on my toes, which I really appreciate.

• What would a typical day be like for you?

In Benchmark I normally spend time talking to customers or prescribers to discuss treatments, both before, during and after treatment. I get to help in the field, do presentations, training and participate in meetings. Sometimes I also go out on wellboats for treatments where I assist then farmers and wellboat crew during the treatment.

• What do you enjoy the most (and least) about your role?

I really enjoy talking to people! Being able to meet people through meeting and conferences etc., either digitally or face to face, is always nice. I also like to help with training or presentations, and it’s fun when I get to help in the field and work close to the fish.

• Tell us about the team you work with.

I am part of the Commercial team with a mix of people from both Benchmark Animal Health and Genetics – One Salmon team. I am lucky to be part of a team filled with people with high knowledge and who are very good at what they do, as well as being fun and supportive.

• What is the best piece of advice you have been given in your career?

Make sure that you have a work-life balance and that you feel fulfilled in both your work and outside life.

• What is your recommendation to other women joining the aquaculture industry?

It’s a challenging career but rewarding. My biggest recommendation is to find a company that really appreciate you.

• What does diversity mean to you?

I think about my workplace where we are a very diverse group including people from many countries as well as a very even split between genders.

• What did you think when joining the industry versus what you think today?

Some challenges have been switched out with others off course. But perhaps I would say that there seems to be an increase in focus on fish welfare, which is good.

• What could Benchmark keep doing / start doing to attract women to the industry?

Benchmark should continue to be a competitive company and continue to consider candidates equal, regardless of gender.

• What do you enjoy doing outside of work?

My partner and I both like hiking, so we do that a lot. I’m also very fond of board games and jigsaw puzzles, as well as reading or listening to books and watching movies.

• What’s your favourite meal?

That would probably be the traditional Norwegian dish called “pinnekjøtt”, or “stick meat” as we call it in the office.

• What’s your favourite aquatic animal, and why?

That would be the octopus. They are both cool and clever, and really fascinate me.