Last week, the Solent region witnessed a pivotal moment in its maritime and transport sectors as over 200 students from 18 schools converged for a groundbreaking careers day. This inaugural event, organized by the Maritime and Transport Careers Programme (MTCP), showcased the potential pathways available in these industries, connecting eager students with established professionals from some of the most prominent companies in the area.
Hosted at ABP’s Ocean Terminal in Southampton, the careers day was a vibrant hub of activity, featuring a diverse range of local employers. Students had the chance to interact with representatives from ABP, DP World, Carnival, Red Funnel, Meachers Global Logistics, Southampton Airport, and even Tesla. The atmosphere was electric, buzzing with conversations about future careers that could very well shape the next generation of talent in these critical sectors.
Katie Bruce, Engagement Officer for MTCP, aptly captured the essence of the day: “Welcoming so many pupils and their teachers to our first careers day and giving them a real insight into the fantastic career prospects available with our region was truly inspiring.” This sentiment resonates deeply as the maritime industry is not just about ships and ports; it encompasses a myriad of roles from logistics to engineering, technology, and beyond. The event aimed to illuminate this diversity, making it clear that opportunities abound right in the students’ backyard.
To make the event even more engaging, ABP introduced cutting-edge VR headsets, offering students a fully immersive experience that showcased the latest maritime technologies. Meanwhile, the South Hampshire College Group showcased its Tech:Truck, which featured an impressive array of augmented reality systems, marine and flight simulation technologies, and even programmable robotic arms. Such hands-on experiences are invaluable in sparking interest and enthusiasm among young attendees, who are often more engaged when they can see and touch the technology they might one day work with.
Sindy Shakya, Head of Careers at The Mountbatten School in Romsey, highlighted the importance of such initiatives: “As a school, we are very keen to show students the many opportunities available to them on their doorstep.” With the maritime industry projected to grow by 5% by 2025, the need for skilled talent has never been more pressing. Events like these not only raise awareness among students but also help bridge the gap between education and industry.
The inclusion of speed networking and apprentice Q&A sessions further enriched the experience, allowing students to ask questions and gain insights directly from those already navigating their careers. This kind of interaction is crucial for demystifying the pathways into these sectors and can significantly influence students’ choices moving forward.
With 18 secondary schools, including mainstream and SEND institutions, participating in this event, the message is clear: the maritime and transport industries are ready and eager to welcome new talent. The success of this inaugural careers day sets a strong precedent for future events, promising to cultivate a robust workforce that can drive the Solent region’s maritime and transport sectors into the future. As the industry evolves, so too must the strategies for attracting and nurturing the next generation of professionals. This event is just the beginning.
