Shetlander, although in your neck of the woods it might be hard to find somebody that didn't know about boats or helicopters or both, let's be realistic and acknowledge that it is the other way round in most UK districts.
Albert's 'off the street' comment is a valid one in my experience of people I have known who have worked for the Coastguard in the lower echelons. They don't seem to pay well either.
Yes I agree, but that does not mean that competent individuals cant learn and receive training.
Is anyone a born ARCC controller? Winch Op? Or Pilot? No! They receive training from those that are skilled in the subject and learn the trade. They make mistakes and learn from them.
The same can be said for Ambulance and Fire Control.