by | Sri Widias Tuti Asnam Rajo Intan
sriwidias@might.org.my
The Maritime industry covers everything connected to the sea or worldwide waterways, especially in relation to navigation, shipping and marine engineering. It has direct impacts on much of our everyday lives. Consider, for example, the sea-based movement of oil that powers our cars, factories and homes. Those ships also transport the coffee we drink, many of the foods we eat, and the clothes we wear, among other things, from faraway lands to our shores.
Technology serves as a compelling magnet for young talent in the maritime industry. Its promise of innovation, connectivity and safety improvements aligns with the preferences of digitally savvy individuals seeking diverse, sustainable career paths. As the industry integrates advanced tech solutions, it not only offers exciting opportunities but also addresses the evolving needs and values of the new generation, making it an attractive and dynamic field for young professionals to consider
Emerging Technology Trends Shaping Maritime Careers
Several technology trends within the maritime industry provide insights into the career prospects, contemporary demands, and skills required for individuals considering this field.
Enhancing Youth Participation and Diversity in the Maritime Industry: Looking from the Youth’s Perspective
Young people often seek safety and are drawn to leisure activities, technology and enjoyable experiences. To increase youth engagement in the maritime sector, it is essential to align initiatives with their preferences and interests.
- We are tech-savvy: Utilising new technologies is crucial for enhancing the maritime industry’s work environment, making it more appealing to young talent. This includes providing secure jobs, competitive wages, enhanced safety measures, and reducing working hours and fatigue
- We are fast learners: Modern training and qualification programmes should offer real career pathways for young individuals, encompassing both on-ship and onshore opportunities, even amid industrial transformations
- We support Girl Power: Despite a significant rise in the number of women pursuing education and training in maritime and ocean-related programmes over recent decades, their participation, retention and advancement into leadership roles in various ocean sectors, especially the maritime industry, have fallen behind
- We can quickly adapt to technological changes: The adoption of advanced automation technologies is anticipated to diversify career opportunities, thereby requiring a robust and scalable talent pool to support the evolving maritime industries of the future
- We are multi-faceted talents: The primary obstacle to youth recruitment is a lack of awareness regarding the wide range of career opportunities within the marine sector, coupled with a common perception that entry into the industry is challenging
In summary, many young individuals exploring potential career options may not initially consider the maritime sector. What is not publicly discussed or exposed are the industry’s diverse career opportunities, attractive remuneration packages, and high job satisfaction rates being relatively unknown to the general public, especially among high school students planning their futures.
Drawing inspiration from the Association of British Columbia Marine Industries website’s tagline, “The Marine Industry: A Place for Me,” it underscores the maritime industry’s inclusivity and diverse nature. It is a space where individuals can truly be themselves, with pathways available for everyone. For young people, it is an opportunity to delve deep and discover where they can find their place and belong within this dynamic sector.
