Richard Groat is a local Stronsay man with a passion for his craft and his community. The Supervisor/ Skipper works on both the salmon farms on the isle and celebrated his fifth-year anniversary with Cooke in February 2025.
What attracted you to a position with Cooke?
After 25 years of having my own creel boat and building my business, I was looking for a new challenge. The job with Cooke was a good fit as it allowed me to use my skills and training I had already completed. The Stronsay sites were brand new and I was keen to be involved from the start, to be part of building the new project from initially installing the grid of pens, to seeing the first fish through the cycle.
What are the benefits of being able to work and live on the isle?
I enjoy working on the Cooke sites. The main benefit for me is that the job allows me to be employed in an industry I enjoy, with the added benefits of a good salary and being home at night with my family when I finish work.
What would you say to someone looking to start a career in aquaculture?
I would always say go for it! There are so many career paths and opportunities within aquaculture. There are lots of courses available to help you build your career and progress.
What training have you done to help you in your role?
Like everyone in the company who works on boats, I have completed all the required training with updates to my first aid, firefighting, sea survival, and skipper’s ticket. I gained an additional Skipper’s ticket and achieved my SVQ level 2 and level 3 in Aquaculture.
What do you like best about Cooke?
The Cooke company is a great community to be part of. There are so many different folk you work with across the cycle. Boats from close to home come on to the site, from Kirkwall and Westray and boats from further afield, from the west coast, Shetland and Norway – it is great to meet and work with new people. No two days are the same and there are always opportunities to learn something new. I also like working for Cooke because I like being on the sea and working on boats, but it’s also the feeling I get from playing my part in producing a great product, using the skills I’ve learnt in aquaculture over the last five years.
What’s the thing you like most about Stronsay?
I love island life, the music, the scenery, the folk, the community spirit, and of course it is a safe community where my wife and I can raise our family.
If you are interested in a career with Cooke, visit our Careers Page for more information and details on how to get in touch.