Shari Bowen Robinson mapping nautical history

Guided by a deep appreciation for both accuracy and artistry, Shari Bowen Robinson has earned the distinction of being Jamaica's first certified nautical cartographer.

"I have always had a passion for visual representation and creative expression," she said. "I enjoyed all my art classes, painting, interior decor, architectural or technical drawings, and it is from then I knew I had a love for visuals." That love for visuals laid the groundwork for a future she couldn't have foreseen. It wasn't until she pursued a degree in urban and regional planning from the University of Technology (UTech), Jamaica, that she encountered cartography, the art and science of mapmaking.

"When introduced to cartography in university, I found myself naturally drawn to the artistic and technical aspects of mapping and chart creation; I find immense satisfaction in creating visual representations that serve both practical and safety purposes," she said. Still, the decision to pursue marine mapping--a specialised and often misunderstood field--took both determination and daring.

"To be honest, I was just as unaware of the field like many others. But my curiosity had me trying to find out various avenues that cartography would provide. So, when I learned that they trained persons to make charts, I didn't hesitate to jump at the opportunity," she explained.

After earning her Bachelor of Science from UTech, she joined the National Land Agency as a cartographer, sharpening her technical skills in land mapping. But the real breakthrough came when she earned a chance to study in the Category B Geospatial Marine Analysis and Cartography Programme at the United Kingdom Hydrographic Office. Her job is as complex as it is critical, with duties spanning data collection, validation, and project planning.

"But the end goal is always to ensure that I am providing the client with an accurate visual product which will aid in their decision-making," she added. Bowen Robinson's expertise has been instrumental in several major projects, including mapping the East and West channels into Kingston Harbour, redevelopment planning for Ocho Rios Bay's pier, and marine studies in Discovery Bay and Port Antonio. Her charts are more than just maps--they support national planning, environmental protection, and marine navigation, "serving as a foundation for informed decision-making across multiple sectors like development or environmental protection, as well as transforming complex geographic data into understandable visualisation aids in route planning for marine safety". She admitted that public understanding of the importance of her work is the largest challenge.

Despite working in a male-dominated space, she has found an encouraging environment.

"My male colleagues have been consistently welcoming and supportive, recognising my expertise as a specialist in the field," she said. As both scientist and artist, Bowen Robinson approaches her role with sensitivity and precision.

"It requires me to have a thoughtful approach, balancing technical precision with real-world implications," she noted. Emerging technologies--including drone imagery--are transforming her field.

"[Consequently], mapping may move away from the traditional paper based-charts and fully embrace the electronic navigational charts," she added. These innovations are helping her produce more accurate and faster charts. Looking ahead, she envisions closer collaboration with other disciplines, including marine biology and urban planning. To young Jamaicans--especially girls--who dream of careers in science, mapping, or any non-traditional field, her message is clear.

"Adopt an 'if not me, then who?' mindset; your success will pave the way for others," she said.

In her downtime, you'll likely find her by the sea--particularly in Negril, where she draws inspiration from the tranquil beauty of the water.