MBE for Larbert's fast rising maritime star

Ashley Nicholson, from Larbert, gained the award in recognition for her services to women in the maritime sector.

When she was named president of the UK Harbour Masters Association (UKHMA) earlier this year it followed her appointment as the youngest ever certified harbour master.

Formed in 1993, the UKHMA is the world’s oldest and largest Harbour Master Association and consists of almost 500 harbour masters and port professionals from across the UK. Its aim is to encourage the safe and efficient conduct of marine operations in ports and engage with, advise and consult the UK Government and associated maritime agencies.

At the time Ashley, who became a full member of the UKHMA in 2011, said: “I am honoured to hold the title of President of the UKHMA and I will strive to continue the excellent work of my predecessors.”

Working for Forth Ports for over a decade, Ashley started her career as vessel traffic service operator and has been Grangemouth senior harbour master since 2017.

She previously won the prestigious Scottish Engineering/Incorporation of Hammermen of Glasgow Award for the role she played in managing the marine operations during the construction of the new Queensferry Crossing in the River Forth.

She also received the Women in Industry award from the Centre for Engineering Education and Development Industry Awards 2020 for her continued efforts to drive the change required to ensure a more gender diverse workforce within the maritime sector.