Figen Başcı transitions from accountant to ship master in Adana

Figen Başcı, a 46-year-old mother of two, has transitioned from an accounting role to becoming a skilled ship master in Adana, Turkey. Her journey began 16 years ago in 2010 when she started managing the paperwork for her husband Cumhur Başcı’s shipyard in the Karataş district.

As she became more involved in the production processes, Başcı developed an interest in the construction of marine vessels. By learning welding and lathe work from her husband and other shipyard employees, she eventually mastered the manufacturing and repair of ships, yachts, and boats. She now actively participates in large-scale projects, including working on vessels weighing between 40 and 50 tons.

Reflecting on her career shift, Başcı noted her initial hesitation regarding whether women could succeed in such a demanding field, but she expressed great satisfaction with her current role, stating that she finds the work both challenging and enjoyable.