
Dr Atife Tuba Beken (She/Her) is an aquaculture engineer and the head of the Aquaculture Department of Central Fisheries Research Institute Trabzon Turkey. With a passion for sustainable aquaculture and innovation, she shares her journey, achievements, and advice for aspiring women in aquaculture.
What inspired you to pursue a career in aquaculture?
My greatest inspiration is being able to see the contributions of my work to nature and humanity. Aquaculture, as a dynamic industry, contributes to my motivation by being open to innovations and solutions. Seeing the results of my work and making a difference makes it more meaningful for me to work in this sector.
What is your current role, and what does a typical day look like for you?
Currently, as the head of the aquaculture department, I am responsible for planning and monitoring production processes and increasing productivity. At the same time, I try to support the performance of our team and to realise the project ideas created in this direction by identifying the needs of the sector. Due to my position, I fulfil different responsibilities every day. Firstly, I closely follow the aquaculture process by checking the facility. I organise meetings with the project team and coordinate the work to be done. In addition to gaining subject mastery by carrying out field studies, I observe bottlenecks on-site. This diversity energizes my work and makes it easier for me to find effective solutions to the problems I encounter.

What has been your proudest achievement in aquaculture so far?
One of my proudest achievements in aquaculture is to successfully ensure the supply of breeders with a respectful approach to nature by establishing strong collaborations with public organisations within the scope of the ‘Development of Turbot (Scophthalmus maximus) Breeding Techniques’ project, which I led, and to produce larvae with high efficiency. On the other hand, in cooperation with the private sector, it is to provide information and material support for them to obtain eggs from the breeder and to realise their first production experience. This success has been achieved thanks to a harmonious and innovative team. As a result, we have demonstrated the approach required for the continuity of sustainable production and the impact of working together with the sector. This was a very meaningful achievement for me to have gone through an efficient production process in a way that respects nature.

What advice would you give to young women considering a career in aquaculture?
Aquaculture is a dynamic sector that requires dedication, continuous learning and a broad perspective. I would advise young women to first and foremost believe in themselves, remain open to learning and growth, and embrace courage in all they do. It is very important that they have a technical command of the subject and closely follow the developments in the sector. Due to the nature of women, their detailed and versatile approach adds great value to the sector. Therefore, I advise them to draw inspiration from themselves and to keep their faith strong that they can overcome any challenge by following their passions.
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