In a robust response to the pressing skills shortage in the maritime sector, Seawork, Europe’s preeminent commercial marine and workboat exhibition, collaborated with Maritime UK and the Solent LEP to orchestrate a riveting careers and training day. The occasion, which marked the culmination of this year’s exhibition, opened a gateway for the youth to delve into the dynamic world of the commercial marine industry.
Cultivating Talent for the Maritime Sector
The Seawork Careers Fair became a hub of inspiration and learning, hosting young individuals aged between 14 and 19. It presented a golden opportunity for these budding professionals to obtain a firsthand glimpse into the potential careers awaiting them in the marine sector and gain valuable insights into the myriad opportunities it houses.
The day witnessed participation from over 160 students, hailing from secondary schools and further education colleges stretching from South Essex to the New Forest. They were immersed in a series of enlightening events hosted within Seawork’s Conference Rooms.
“Commercial Marine has Talent”: Igniting Passions and Creating Dialogues.
The “Commercial Marine has Talent” showcase was an electrifying segment of the day, where young professionals embarking on their marine industry careers interacted with the students through vibrant presentations followed by a dynamic Q&A session. This session was succeeded by the careers fair that hosted 17 exhibitors from various commercial marine sectors, offering the students a closer look at the vast array of jobs available in the industry.
Louise Bateman, a Progression Mentor from St Vincent College, Gosport, encapsulated the essence of the day, stating, “Great day out – amazing, inspirational talks from students with successful apprenticeships. The Lego stand was a big hit! One student who attended is now seeking career support to look at marine engineering apprenticeships.”
Students, too, expressed their newfound interest and appreciation for the industry. A Year 9 Henry Cort Community College student commented on the event’s educational and engaging nature, seemingly making time fly.
Pioneering the Careers Trail and Championing Skill Development
Seawork 2023 also introduced a novel Careers Trail, sponsored by A-Plan Marine Insurance. This trail incorporated QR Codes to offer advice, information, and giveaways from the exhibitors, facilitating a rich learning experience for the attendees.
A highlight of the day was the BMEEA (British Marine Electrical and Electronics Association) Apprentices Competition. This contest, embedded in the Training and Careers Day, drew participation from 24 marine business apprentices who competed zealously to design motor controls, perform necessary calculations, and create wiring diagrams. The event heralded the apprentices as the soon-to-be marine electrical engineers, ready to invigorate the marine industry with their expertise and enthusiasm.
Looking Forward: Seawork 2024
As Seawork bids farewell to a successful 2023, the anticipation builds for the monumental 25th edition scheduled for 11-13 June next year, with the promising Careers Day marked for Thursday, 13 June.
For further information or enquiries about next year’s event, please contact careers@seawork.com.
Embarking on a journey to bridge the maritime skills gap, Seawork 2023 is a testament to the industry’s commitment to fostering young talent and securing a prosperous future for the UK’s commercial marine sector.
