Cork Profile - Roy Crowley
STS Crane Operator at the Port of Cork Company
When you were small, what did you want to be as a grown-up?
I wanted to be just like my dad. I wasn’t too sure what his occupation was as a child, but I knew he was honest and hard working.
Tell us about your career progression to your role today:
When I left school, I started a college course in electronic engineering and knew fairly quickly it wasn’t the course for me, so I applied for an apprenticeship position in Wm O’Brien Crane Hire as a heavy vehicle mechanic. I was successful and completed my apprenticeship, so I then went operating the mobile cranes.
After 10 years there, in 2013, I applied for a position in the Port of Cork as a cargo handling equipment operator (CHEO) and was delighted to be selected for the position.
Since being there I’ve operated most of the machinery. I’ve now moved to the new Cork Container Terminal (CCT) in Ringaskiddy and have gotten a position as a crane operator on the STS cranes and that’s where I am today.
What is the most enjoyable aspect of what you do?
I think that knowing what I do at work every day is an integral part of business, within the city of Cork and further afield within the country, by being a cog in the wheel of the importation and exportation of goods to and from this port. It’s also cool to be operating brand new state-of-the-art cranes in a brand-new port.
What motivates you?
Family first. I want to provide for my family and be an inspiration to the girls as they find their way through life and to become whatever it is they want to be.
Being a member of the team at work is great – it motivates me to work together with the lads to achieve our daily goals and turn the vessels around as safely and quickly as we can.
What advice would you give your 15 year old self?
I do think I could have done better in school but being honest, I’m happy where I am at in life, so I’d just say enjoy where you’re at but always strive to be better every day.
If you weren’t in the job you have, what would you be doing?
I was around mobile cranes for nearly a decade before the port, so I would think I would be someway involved in that industry.
What is your greatest life or career achievement to-date?
I completed the Diploma in Business Management in Griffith College at night in 2020/21 and my apprenticeship in 2003-2007.
I also got my mobile crane ticket at 19 and although I didn’t think much of it then, as I look back, it was an impressive achievement for a teenager.
Who has had the biggest influence on you in your life?
My family. I’m the youngest of 5 and my older siblings have always had an influence on me as well as my parents.
What is the life dream now?
To be happy at home and be as successful as I can within the port.
How do you switch off?
I like to keep fit, running and gym classes. I also like to socialize with family and friends.
What is your favourite Cork memory?
When I was young, my older siblings were in the Mayfield Brass Band, so I used to have to march with the band holding the banner. I was in a few St Patrick’s Day parades and I marched through the Jack Lynch tunnel back when it was opened.
What is your favourite place in Cork?
I really like Gougane Barra but there’s a lot of good places in Cork.
Do you have a favourite quote or motto?
“Everybody is a genius, but if you judge a fish by its ability to climb a tree, it will live its whole life believing that it is stupid.” We all have our unique abilities that we are good at, so you need to give people the utensils they need to grow in themselves.
When are you at your happiest?
At home and when I’m around like-minded people, enjoying each other’s company.
What is your hidden talent?
I haven’t really got one but I used to play musical instruments in the School of Music when I was younger, but I preferred sport. My brother always laughs that the only music trophy in our house was my one and I wasn’t as dedicated as the others at it.
What might we be surprised to know about you?
I took up Muay Thai in my 30s to keep fit. I met some great people while I trained there and it really was the fittest I ever felt in my life. I wish I took it up at a younger age.
Factfile
Name and position: Roy Crowley, STS Crane Operator at the Port of Cork Company
Age: 38
Lives: Mayfield
Family: Wife and 3 girls
Pets: One dog - Jack the Jack Russell
Favourite thing about Cork: The people
Least favourite thing about Cork: Homelessness
One thing you’d change about Cork: The use of public transport