From Crisis to Career at Sea: How ETO Zvezdan Ristic Started as a Seaman
For ETO Zvezdan Ristic, life as an Electro-Technical Officer (ETO) didn’t start in the usual way. Unlike many seafarers who begin their careers early, Zvezdan's journey started much later—at the age of 45. Before life at sea, he was a seasoned electrician, working in technical maintenance, broadcasting equipment, and designing digital devices. But the global economic crisis of 2008 changed everything. He had to find solutions to make more money and that's where a push from a cousin convinced him to take the leap of finding opportunity onboard. Now, more than a decade later, Zvezdan thrives in his role as an ETO, combining his love for electronics with his career at sea.
The Unique Challenges of Being an ETO
Working as an ETO comes with its own set of challenges. Unlike officers or engineers who work in teams, Zvezdan often works alone, troubleshooting critical systems on board. “It’s tough because you’re the only one in this position,” he explains. “I had to learn to organize my work, prioritize important tasks, and create systems that make everything manageable.”
Despite the demanding nature of the job, Zvezdan loves what he does. He shared the sentiment of when how one who loves one's job, will make everything easier! He also adds that knowledge was also a key for him in being an ETO, that although the work can get physically hard, problem solving is a reward when you have knowledge.
Discovering Seafair: What Sets Seafair Apart for Zvezdan
Before joining Seafair, Zvezdan had worked with a traditional manning agency in Montenegro. But the experience was riddled with problems—delayed payments, lack of transparency, and even having to pay for job placements.
“I remember my previous agency asked for money if I wanted a contract,” he says.
But with Seafair, it was completely different. For the first time, the agency paid me a small advance for my next contract. It showed they were honest and cared about seafarers.
Zvezdan highlights the simplicity and reliability of Seafair’s support and communication as he shared that he was satisfied that everything was easy for him—emails, assistance, and quick responses to questions. He never felt left out.
Building a Better Future for Your Career with Seafair
Zvezdan’s story is a testament to Seafair’s mission to revolutionize the crewing industry. By providing a digital platform that is 100% free for seafarers, Seafair ensures fair treatment, transparency, and career growth. As Zvezdan puts it, “I’m very satisfied with Seafair. They’ve made everything easier for me. Of course I would like to keep working with Seafair!”
With zero fees, a user-friendly platform, and dedicated support, Seafair is committed to putting seafarers first.
Explore new opportunities with Seafair and take charge of your maritime career. Join a community where professional development and personal support are prioritized, ensuring you have the resources needed to succeed at sea.