In this Q&A, electrical manager Ralf (Germany), shares how he uses his professional skills to help impact lives from shore to shore.
OM’s ships need uniquely skilled workers both on board and on shore, to continue impacting lives from shore to shore. In this Q&A, electrical manager Ralf (Germany), shares how he uses his professional skills.
How was your early life and how did you choose your profession?
I was born in the former German Democratic Republic. I grew up there quite sheltered and it was only during my apprenticeship as an electrician I gave my life to Jesus. This was not so spectacular at first, but God continued to work in my life bit by bit.
When I was young I had no idea what to study. But it’s always useful to have a skilled trade and that’s why I applied as an electrician. However, I never had anything to do with repairs or manual work. Computers were more my thing.
I did not enjoy my training and also questioned my choice of education when I became a Jesus follower — normally I would have been advised to do something else. After a failed exam and because of miscommunication I did not have time to study for my re-examination. I prayed and asked God, ‘If I am to become an electrician, then I need your help.’
So the morning of the exam I got up early and prayed again, this time more specifically. I just decided to learn all about generators and asked God to give me this subject.
Before the exam, I was called into a room with a table with pieces of paper on it. Of course I prayed, ‘Which paper?’ The whole morning had been cloudy. But after that prayer, the clouds cleared and light fell on the largest piece of paper lying on the table. And with my child-like faith I picked it up…
When I read the first questions, I couldn't help but smile. It was of course about generators!
So I became an electrician. This strengthened my belief that God has a plan.
I then later joined OM’s ships; Logos Hope, as a project worker, and Doulos, as a crewmember, after which I completed my A-levels and started my studies in electrical engineering. In 2016 I returned to Logos Hope and since 2018 I have been working in the on shore ship's office in Mosbach, Germany, as head of the electrical department.
What does your job as an electrical manager with ships look like?
During my time on board the ships, I did typical electrical work, pulling cables, troubleshooting and repairing electrical equipment. My training covered a wide-range of things and was put to good use here! Later, I had managerial roles as team leader and officer; which brought a lot of new experience and opportunities.
Today, I have a managerial role in the ship's office. Here I support the electricians on our ships, plan projects and take care of orders for spare parts. I’m involved in annual maintenance projects, leading other workers or repairing equipment, including inspections and function tests.
What is your favourite thing about your job?
In my role, I get to know a lot of new people. Electricians from different countries, with different educational backgrounds and experiences. I often see how young people grow with new challenges and responsibilities. The type of projects for an electrician on the ships is very broad, and we have many exciting tasks to learn and grow from.
How can our readers pray for you?
I am always learning and growing, so pray for strengthened faith, wisdom and patience in my role and leadership. You can pray for more professionals to join our work and for personal support both in prayer and financially as the ministry and my position is financed by donations.
What advice would you give to others who consider using their skills like you?
It all happened quite quickly for me. Two weeks turned into a few months and then a few years. We are often quick to make excuses, but my advice is to just go for it. Walking in faith also means letting go and trusting God. You just need to realise that your own habits will be shaken up. You should allow yourself to be shaken. That's where you'll see the most growth.
Thank you for sharing your skills and your journey with OM’s ships.
Have you been inspired by Ralf’s story? Find out if OM’s Ship Ministry is for you on our website: Get on board | OM.org