The maritime industry is facing a crew crisis, and the solution might not be in the engine room or the bridge—it could be in the Wi-Fi signal. As shipowners worldwide scramble to attract and retain talent, onboard amenities, particularly seamless connectivity, are gaining importance. The industry is waking up to a simple truth: today’s mariners expect “land-like” digital experiences, even in the middle of the ocean.
This shift is the focus of an upcoming webinar, “Crewed Up or Crew Cut? Rethinking retention and recruitment at sea,” featuring insights from three leading U.S. shipowners: Crowley Maritime, American Roll-On Roll-Off Carrier (ARC), and Overseas Shipholding Group (OSG). The discussion, moderated by Greg Trauthwein, promises to cut through the noise and deliver practical, high-level insights on what’s working—and what’s not—in the quest to keep crews onboard.
Jen Leonard, VP of Talent & Culture at Crowley Maritime, will share her perspective on what’s driving crew turnover today. “We’re seeing a generational shift,” Leonard says. “Younger mariners expect the same connectivity they have onshore. If they can’t stream a movie or video call family easily, they’ll look elsewhere.” Crowley has been investing heavily in onboard connectivity, recognizing it as a critical tool for retention.
Kelly Wilson Clark, SVP & General Counsel at ARC, echoes this sentiment. “Connectivity isn’t a luxury anymore—it’s a necessity,” she argues. “Our crews are away from home for months at a time. If we want them to stay, we need to make their time at sea as comfortable as possible.” ARC has been piloting high-speed internet solutions, and early feedback suggests it’s making a difference in recruitment and retention.
Kerri Bancroft, Director of Marine Labor Relations at OSG, will bring a labor relations perspective to the discussion. “We’re seeing a direct correlation between connectivity and crew satisfaction,” Bancroft notes. “When crews feel connected, they’re happier, more productive, and more likely to stay onboard.” OSG has been working closely with tech providers to ensure reliable, high-speed internet across its fleet.
Eric Griffin, VP Offshore & Fishing – Maritime at Inmarsat, will provide a tech perspective, explaining how modern satellite solutions are bridging the digital divide at sea. “The technology exists to deliver seamless connectivity, even in the most remote locations,” Griffin says. “The challenge is making it accessible and affordable for shipowners.”
The webinar will tackle tough questions: What’s really driving crew turnover today? How is connectivity shaping recruitment outcomes? Which welfare strategies are making a measurable impact? And how are operators preparing for the future of digital-first crew care?
This isn’t just about Wi-Fi—it’s about rethinking crew welfare in a digital age. As the industry grapples with an aging workforce and a shrinking talent pool, shipowners are realizing that retention strategies must evolve. The mariners of today and tomorrow expect more, and those who deliver will have a competitive edge.
The webinar promises to be a frank, no-holds-barred discussion on what’s working and what’s not in the fight for talent at sea. For shipowners, crew managers, and maritime tech providers, it’s a must-attend event. The maritime industry is at a crossroads, and the path forward is clear: invest in connectivity, invest in crew welfare, and invest in the future.