Happy Birthday, You Bastard

14th October, Victoria Drummond

Victoria Alexandrina Drummond, MBE
14th October, 1894

Victoria Drummond was a pioneering British marine engineer known for breaking through gender barriers in her profession and becoming the first woman marine engineer in Britain. Born on October 14, 1894, in Errol, Perthshire, Scotland, Drummond’s career was both groundbreaking and filled with obstacles, as she faced significant discrimination in a male-dominated industry. Despite these challenges, her courage, technical prowess, and determination established her as a role model for women in engineering and maritime fields.

Drummond was born into a prominent Scottish family, the daughter of Captain Malcolm Drummond and Lady Violet Drummond, a member of the British aristocracy. She was named after her godmother, Queen Victoria, and grew up in a privileged environment. Her family lived at Megginch Castle in Perthshire, a historic home that provided a backdrop of comfort and security. Yet, despite her aristocratic upbringing, Drummond had a different vision for her future. Instead of pursuing the typical societal expectations for women of her status, which often involved marriage and managing estates, she nurtured a fascination with mechanics and ships from a young age.

Drummond’s interest in engineering was encouraged by her father, who had served in the Royal Navy. He arranged for her to visit workshops and factories, sparking a passion that would shape her life. This early exposure to machinery instilled in her the belief that women, too, could work in industries that had traditionally been dominated by men. However, this path was not without its obstacles. The engineering and maritime sectors at the time were overwhelmingly male, and women were largely excluded from technical training programs.

Undeterred by societal expectations, Drummond pursued her dream. In 1915, during World War I, she began her engineering apprenticeship at the Northern Garage in Perth, where she trained in the mechanics of engines. Her apprenticeship was not easy, as she was the only woman in the workshop and faced scepticism from her male colleagues. Nevertheless, her dedication and determination won her the respect of her peers, and she completed her apprenticeship, gaining valuable practical experience in engine mechanics.

Following her apprenticeship, Drummond sought to advance her career by entering the maritime industry. She applied for positions as a marine engineer, but her efforts were met with resistance. Shipping companies were hesitant to hire a woman for a job that required long voyages and work in often dangerous conditions. Despite these rejections, Drummond refused to give up. In 1922, she successfully passed the Board of Trade examination, becoming the first woman in Britain to qualify as a marine engineer.

With her certification in hand, Drummond began her seafaring career. Her first assignment was aboard the SS Anchises, a Blue Funnel Line ship, where she worked as a fifth engineer. The work was gruelling, and Drummond was subject to discrimination from some of her male colleagues, who doubted her abilities solely because of her gender. Nonetheless, she proved herself through her competence and hard work. Her colleagues soon recognized that she was just as capable, if not more so, than the men in her position.

Drummond's career advanced steadily, though not without difficulties. She continued to work aboard various ships, including the SS Mulbera and the SS Benalder, often being the only woman on board. Life at sea was physically demanding, and engineers were required to maintain and repair the ship’s engines, sometimes in harsh weather conditions or during emergencies. Drummond not only excelled in these technical tasks but also developed a reputation for her calmness under pressure, an invaluable trait in marine engineering.

In 1940, Drummond faced one of the greatest challenges of her career. While serving as a third engineer on the SS Bonita, a British cargo ship, the vessel was attacked by enemy aircraft during World War II. Drummond displayed extraordinary bravery and professionalism under fire. She remained at her post in the engine room, helping to keep the engines running while the ship was under bombardment. Her efforts were recognized, and she was awarded the Lloyd's War Medal for Bravery at Sea, a rare honor for a civilian, particularly for a woman in her field at that time.

Despite her competence and accolades, Drummond continued to face institutional barriers. In the 1940s, she sought promotion to Chief Engineer, the highest rank for an engineer on a ship. Although she passed the technical examination, the Board of Trade denied her the promotion on the grounds of her gender. It was a frustrating moment in her career, reflecting the deeply entrenched sexism of the time. The decision was a blow to Drummond, but she remained resilient, continuing to work as an engineer and mentor to younger women in the field.

Drummond’s experiences as a woman in a male-dominated industry were not unique, but her determination to challenge gender norms set her apart. Throughout her career, she encountered resistance not only from her peers but also from institutions that were unwilling to recognize the abilities of women in technical professions. Nevertheless, she continued to push boundaries, advocating for the inclusion of women in engineering roles and mentoring those who followed in her footsteps.

One of Drummond’s most enduring contributions to the field of engineering was her role as a mentor and advocate for women. She recognized the importance of encouraging more women to enter the engineering and maritime sectors, and she used her experiences to inspire others. After retiring from active service, Drummond dedicated herself to mentoring young women, sharing her knowledge and passion for engineering with the next generation.

In recognition of her trailblazing career, Drummond received numerous honours later in life. In 1941, she became the first woman to be elected a member of the Institute of Marine Engineers. Her contributions to the maritime industry were widely celebrated, and she was regarded as a pioneer for women in engineering. She was awarded an MBE (Member of the Order of the British Empire) in 1942 for her services to engineering and the maritime industry.

Drummond’s story serves as a testament to her resilience and determination in the face of adversity. She broke down barriers that had long kept women out of technical fields and demonstrated that gender should not be a factor in determining one’s abilities. Her legacy continues to inspire women in engineering and maritime professions today.

Victoria Drummond passed away on Christmas Day, 1978, leaving behind a legacy of perseverance, excellence, and courage. Her contributions to engineering and her efforts to promote gender equality in the workplace have earned her a lasting place in British history. Today, her name is remembered alongside other pioneers who paved the way for women in professions traditionally dominated by men.

Drummond’s life and career stand as a powerful example of how individuals can challenge societal norms and create opportunities for others through sheer determination and passion. Her story remains relevant in discussions about gender equality in technical fields, and her influence continues to be felt by those who follow in her footsteps.




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