PANEL #1 – Developing the future workforce
Digitalization and decarbonization are presenting significant challenges to the maritime industry. As the sector undergoes a radical transformation driven by these forces, it must also focus on attracting, retaining, and preparing talent for the future.

• Key challenges due to digitalization & decarbonization
• Shipping 2030/2050: How the demands of GenZ and GenA differ
• Effective strategies to attract and retain talents
• How maritime organizations can respond today for the future of work

PANEL #2 –  Build a clear narrative to raise industry’s profile
To secure the future of the maritime industry, companies must adapt to the evolving expectations of younger generations. This involves challenging stereotypes, promoting diversity, and embracing new workplace trends. Above all, prioritizing well-being is not just a trend but a necessity.

• Career opportunities for young professionals
• Why industry is talking about DEI (Diversity, Equity, Inclusion), Mentoring & Psychological Safety
• The swift from DEI to MEI (Merit, Excellence and Intelligence)
• How to promote wellbeing and a work-life balance within the industry

PANEL #3 – Seafarers’ Perspectives 

A discussion with seafarers aims to highlight the key challenges they face both at sea and ashore, while exploring their career prospects. It will also address how future developments, such as automation and decarbonization, will impact seafarers, and provide an opportunity to hear their perspectives on the changing maritime landscape.

The discussion will cover the following topics:

• What are the pros and cons of pursuing a career at sea?
• What is the most exciting or rewarding issue onboard? And what is the most challenging issue onboard?
• How effective is the communication with the people ashore (Corporate/Family/Friends)? How can this be improved?
• What do you think are the barriers to socializing onboard? What can we done to improve this?
• In your view, has the maritime industry developed an attractive working environment for young people to join today?  What needs to be done further?
• What is your key message/ advice to young people who are interested in a career at sea?

PANEL#4 – Effective training, upskilling & re-skilling programmes

There’s a lot of hype around soft skills, and there’s no doubt they play a crucial role in professional development. This moment offers a real opportunity for the sector to reinvent its value proposition to current and prospective professionals, while identifying new training methods and approaches.

• Focus on soft skills development
• How to nurture agility, adaptability- the importance of continuous learning
• The transformation of training: new concepts needed
• Ensuring a people-centered transition