MELISSA NICHOLSON
LABOURER & ALTERNATE CAPTAIN
What’s your job here?
I wear a few hats. Officially, I’m a boat laborer, but I also step in as an alternate captain and Chris’s right-hand person. When he’s away, I manage the sock floor, which means keeping track of everything, from numbers to paperwork, and making sure things run smoothly. Think of me as a problem-solver and organizer on the water.
What do you enjoy most about your work?
It’s the perfect mix of routine and variety. Every day is different, which keeps things exciting. Being from Newfoundland, where I grew up right by the ocean. I love that I get to be on the water every day. It’s like a little piece of home here on PEI.
What did you do for work before this?
I took a year of general studies in college a while back. I’ve also worked in a mussel processing plant, in the meat department at a grocery store, and a bit in the deli. So, I’ve got a mix of experience, but nothing beats being out on the water.
What’s the best part of this job?
It’s definitely the people I work with. And the fact that there’s always a new challenge to tackle. It’s never boring!
Can you describe a typical workday?
My day starts with getting the sock floor ready. We need to know what size mussel seed we’re working with and make sure everything is organized and separated. It’s all about being preparation for the day’s work.
What advice would you give someone interested in working here?
If you’re a hands-on person who enjoys physical work and likes to be outdoors as part of a team, then this is a great place to be. It’s definitely a labour-intensive job, but if you’re up for the challenge then it might be for you.