All the old great companies were run by guys who knew what an animator meant, and guys who knew how to draw. All the companies today are run by executives.
Most sailing ships take what they call trainees, who pay to be part of the crew. The Picton Castle takes people who are absolutely raw recruits. But you can't just ride along. You're learning to steer the ship, navigation; you're pulling lines, keeping a lookout; in the galley you're cooking.