In the maritime industry, the lack of training opportunities and the shortage of seafarers are interconnected issues that need addressing. In recent years, the sector has faced a significant shortage of qualified workers, driven by an ageing workforce, increasing demand for services, and challenges in attracting and retaining new talent.
The commercial marine industry needs not only operational talent but also the next generation of innovators and problem solvers to help shape the future of the world we live in. This challenge is a key component of Seawork this week, where a training and careers event will bring together hundreds of young people to gain insight into the industry on Thursday, 13 June.
Unmanned Surface Vessels (USVs) will likely play a large role in their future, given they offer significant environmental, cost, and man-saving advantages over crewed vessels. They deliver a remarkable 97% reduction in carbon emissions compared to traditional boats and around a 60% cost saving. Critically, for those looking at a career in maritime, they offer the ability to expand operational recruitment to a much wider talent pool.
USVs enhance safety for crew members and enable a much greater diversity in the workforce due to their remote operation capabilities. Shore-based operations allow individuals to pursue maritime careers without the pressures of being offshore and away from home, opening up opportunities for those with caring responsibilities or those physically or otherwise unable to work offshore.
The anticipated significant growth in the USV market underscores the need for more personnel in the industry. The recently announced ROC+Dock project is a crucial step in this direction. This initiative not only enables USVs to self-charge, reducing the need for direct human onsite interaction (and further improving environmental sustainability), but also ensures that the new generation of operators is trained from the outset to manage autonomous vehicles. The training component of the project at South Devon College (SDC) ensures that operators are well-prepared to run these advanced vessels.
Paul Singer, CMgr MCMI, Business & Qualification Development Coordinator at SDC, said:
“The new Remote Operations Centre simulation capability will bring cutting-edge maritime innovation into further education, giving us the opportunity to deliver future skills and training to younger, aspirational students starting out in their careers as well as upskilling opportunities for the current workforce.”
This partnership and combined project represent a significant advancement in addressing the skills crisis in the maritime industry while reducing environmental impact. Moreover, it has the capacity to improve the working lives of seafarers and their families by providing opportunities for shore-based careers, contributing to a more sustainable and inclusive future for the maritime industry.
by David Hull, Hydrosurv CEO
