The Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) has launched a year-long Careers at Sea National Awareness Campaign aimed at addressing the talent shortage in the UK’s shipping industry and raising awareness about the diverse career paths available at sea and onshore.
Shipping Industry Faces Talent Shortage
The UK shipping sector supports 650,000 jobs, but only 600 cadets joined the industry in 2023, far below the 2,000 needed annually to maintain a sustainable workforce. The shortage threatens economic growth and social well-being, given the sector’s crucial role in the economy.
Campaign Highlights
The campaign was unveiled during the MNTB board seminar in Glasgow and focuses on inspiring a new generation of seafarers through multiple initiatives:
- Revamped Careers at Sea brand with a modern visual identity.
- A new website and social media presence aimed at young career seekers.
- An advertising campaign to combat “sea blindness,” a term referring to the lack of public awareness about shipping career opportunities.
Overcoming “Sea Blindness”
MNTB Director Kathryn Neilson emphasized the importance of promoting shipping careers beyond traditional maritime hubs, stating:
“Sea blindness is a significant barrier, with many unaware of the rewarding opportunities in shipping. Our campaign aims to highlight the importance of the industry to the public and show that a maritime career is for everyone.”
Government Support
Maritime Minister Mike Kane expressed the government’s commitment to training future seafarers:
“The government is contributing to training costs and modernizing training to encourage more people to pursue maritime careers. Shipping is vital for the UK economy, and initiatives like this campaign play a key role in showcasing the fantastic opportunities available.”
Careers at Sea Rebranding
After eight years, the Careers at Sea brand has been updated to better connect with young talent. The rebranding includes a modern logo and visual identity, tailored for engagement across social media and billboards.
Discover Opportunities in Shipping
Visit the newly launched Careers at Sea website to explore a range of career paths in the maritime industry and find a role that suits your skills and interests.
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Source: MNTB
