He has worked via TOS for more than eight years now. His name is Jaroslav, born and raised in Decin. Jaroslav Kolin tells us: „I attended the only inland shipping school in the country at that time. After I graduated, I started working on an inland vessel right away. It was a very attractive job for me with the possibility to travel through Europe. After a certain period of sailing time and gaining experience, I changed positions from AB to Mate (Steuermann) and now I‘m considering taking the exams to become a Captain with a Rhine patent. I‘m very proud to say that I have been working on vessels for fifteen years now without any injuries or accidents.“
From the left: Lenka, Rudolf, Jaroslav and Sarka
Variety of work
Jaroslav explains: „On a vessel you’re always busy. Besides the regular maintenance, I very much like the variety of work. In the summer time I grind and paint. There are always small repairs to complete and I really enjoy working with the ropes. One advantage of this job is that I can improve my language skills. Right now I‘m able to communicate with the crew in their native language. Another advantage is that you can see and experience Europe. While on the vessel, I can see new places and new countries.“
Excellent working relationship
Jaroslav got in contact with TOS through his colleagues. They already worked for TOS and encouraged him to contact the Czech office in Decin. He shares his experience with TOS: „I appreciate the professional, friendly and correct relationship between employer and employee very much, with the captain, the captain’s family and the TOS office. Since I have been working on one vessel for three years now, I feel quite like a member of the family. I know their life stories and they know mine. Once in a while we have a BBQ together and enjoy time together. Also, it is possible to bring my family along with me from time to time. In another area of my work, I’m very happy with the equipment for the crew on the vessel. Everything is modern and functioning. We have a fully equipped small kitchen, complete with a dishwasher as well as a washing machine and tumble dryer.
And above all, I just love my job!“ says Jaroslav.