Discover the Thriving World of Maritime Careers at Seawork's Career Day

Maritime Solent made a triumphant return to the Seawork exhibition in Southampton (10-12 June), hosting a careers day that attracted around 300 young people. This event provided a unique opportunity for students aged 11-18 from 20 different schools and colleges to explore the vast opportunities within the maritime sector.

Engaging with the Future of Maritime

The careers fair featured 27 organizations, including giants like Carnival UK, Just Be Maritime, Serco, the Maritime and Transport Action Group, and the Royal Navy, all eager to share insights and opportunities with the next generation. Activities ranged from hands-on electronics workshops by British Marine to inspiring talks in the 'Marine's Got Talent' session and practical demonstrations by the Workboat Association.

Empowering Educators and Students Alike

This year, Maritime Solent also introduced a CPD session for teachers, aiming to deepen their understanding of the maritime industry's skill requirements. This initiative ensures that more educators can guide their students towards these exciting career paths in the future.

One of the highlights was a talk by Shea Wallace, a Deck Officer Cadet, who shared her exhilarating experiences working on vessels like the RRS Discovery and the Sir David Attenborough, traveling to Antarctica, the Arctic, Japan, the Caribbean, and the Mediterranean.

A Growing Tradition

Marking its fourth year, the Seawork Careers Day has seen exponential growth, from 70 attendees in its inaugural year to a target of 500 by 2026. Feedback from participants like Simon Lofting, a Marine Engineering Lecturer, underscores the event's impact, with students leaving inspired and informed about their future prospects in maritime.

Lorna Wagner, Programme Manager at Maritime UK Solent, expressed her delight at the event's success, emphasizing the organization's commitment to showcasing the rewarding career paths within the maritime sector to young people.