The post -- traditionally held by males -- captured her interest five years ago when she began in the department as the Assistant Registrar of Shipping.

"I was looking for an opportunity to display my management skills and organisational skills,'' Ms Davis said.

"Under the supervision of the Registrar of Shipping, I became conversant with the United Kingdom and the Bermuda Merchant Shipping Acts, together with registration procedures,'' she said.

Ms Davis has been earmarked for the position for three years. In 1997 after the former registrar retired, she was appointed Registrar Designate.

"I undertook an extensive training and development programme that included training attachments to the UK Shipping register and the Isle of Man Marine Administration,'' she said.

Clearly excited with her field, Ms Davis described the challenges of her position.

"On many occasions I have been called into the office on weekends or early mornings to attend to registry matters,'' she said. "When ships are on the high seas, time is no factor.'' SHIPPING SHI