A HMS Sultan-based sailor witnessed his daughter pass out of her initial engineering training with the Royal Navy.

Engineering Technician Initial Career Course (ETICC) deputy training officer, WO1 Scott Whiting, observed with pride as his daughter, Heidi, completed her training at HMS Sultan.

Heidi joined the Royal Navy in February, training as an Engineering Technician (Marine Engineering) on an accelerated apprenticeship scheme.

After completing a ten-week phase one training at HMS Raleigh, she joined HMS Sultan for phase two, focusing on the ETICC.

Completion of the ETICC equips trainees with necessary skills to join their first Marine Engineering Departments at sea, supporting Royal Navy operations globally.

Heidi's selection for an advanced apprenticeship means she has been fast-tracked into phase three training at HMS Sultan, where she is currently learning leadership skills.

Heidi said: "I always knew that joining the Royal Navy was going to be an option. There are many reasons as to why I wanted to join but my dad has played a big part in this. From being small he would take me down into the engine rooms during families’ days on ship, and I believe this is where it started."

Scott said: "I’m very proud to be directly involved with my daughter’s passing out into the Branch as a Marine Engineer – something I thought I would never see! And that she is following in the modern version of my Naval apprenticeship makes it even more remarkable.

"Initially I was concerned that taking over the role there, might cause a conflict of interests, however, the divisional staff within my team handled what could be a delicate area with expert professionalism.

"With 40 years of Naval service, my role within ETICC will be my last before I retire. I hope that Heidi will also enjoy a long and successful career."

Scott Whiting began his Royal Navy career as an Artificer Apprentice in 1984, serving as a Marine Engineering Technician on shipping" target="_blank">ships including HMS Intrepid, Ark Royal, and others.

He has received multiple medals for operations in the Gulf, the Gold, Diamond, and Platinum Jubilee, as well as a Long Service and Good Conduct award with two clasp bars, recognising over 35 years of service.

Scott took on his current role in the ETICC just three weeks before the completion of Heidi's training.