A POSITIVE move to bridge the skills gap in the maritime and transport industries is making a real difference and since the start of the year we have engaged with more than 2,000 students, parents and teachers.

It’s a great beginning to 2025 and builds on the impressive numbers we saw in the previous year that culminated in a careers fair at the Port of Southampton.

The Maritime and Transport Careers Programme (MTCP) is funded by partners including Red Funnel, ABP, Meachers Global Logistics, Southampton Airport and Portsmouth International Ports, Carnival, Williams Shipping, and supported by Hampshire Careers Hub.

As the dedicated Engagement Officer, with many years experience in the careers industry, I was delighted to be appointed to run the careers programme and highlight the long-term career opportunities available to people in the area who typically have not considered a career in these sectors, from school leavers, to returners, or those looking for a change in profession.

By working together, we can highlight the fantastic range of opportunities that are available in the maritime and transport industries in our area. There are so many fulfilling, flexible, and long-term opportunities no matter what background you come from.

Whether you’re passionate about roads, rails, skies, or waterways, we’re here to guide you on a journey filled with possibilities.

Traditionally, our industries have been seen as male-dominated or lacking in diversity – perceptions we want to change and make sure that the local workforce is aware of all the different roles and opportunities available, whether they are just starting out after school, or experienced professionals looking for a new challenge.

Activities so far have included immersive days with partners including Meachers Global Logistics and the MTCP has attended numerous careers fairs and hosted interactive primary school assemblies with the likes of DP World. The sector’s Maritime Mondays have also been supported by MTCP, which has provided on-site visits to Carnival and ABP Ports for careers advisors and teachers from the Solent’s secondary schools and colleges to showcase the maritime career opportunities available to their students.

Earlier this year, we celebrated National Careers Week, focusing on the exciting career opportunities in the Solent region through our local businesses. Key events included:

n Peter Symonds Futures Day: Over 1,500 young people attended.

n Bitterne Park School Event: We engaged with over 1,000 young people and staff aged 11 to 18.

n Cantell Futures Fair, over 300 young, people, parents and carers

School staff have commented that the support MTCP provides their young people with the opportunity to explore the wide range of careers available, breaking down those barriers around stereotypical roles and sparking interest in a sector they hadn’t considered before, even though many of the businesses are right on their doorstep.

It is important that young people have meaningful interactions with a range of MTCP ambassadors including current apprentices, ensuring they make informed decisions about their future careers.

And in June MTCP has been invited to be the focus for a Learn Live broadcast which will allow young people to access information about the sectors and make informed decisions on their future.

Following our very successful Careers Day in November, where we welcomed over 200 students and staff from schools across the Solent and Hampshire area, we are pleased to confirm our next event will be on 20th November 2025 at ABP’s Ocean Cruise Terminal.

MTCP is developing a new Work Experience Programme aimed at connecting individuals to gain hands-on experience in the maritime and transport sectors.

This initiative is designed to provide valuable insight into the industry, build essential skills, and inspire future careers.

We are proposing to share work placements to minimise the impact on businesses while offering a meaningful experience for participants. For example, one pupil could have work experience at 2 or 3 different companies during their 5-day work experience programme.

As well as focusing on young people, the project is also looking to engage with people returning to work or looking for a career change. If you would like to find out more about how your school or organisation can get involved with the Maritime and Transport Careers Programme please contact katie.bruce@hants.gov.uk and find out more about the exciting programme here www.mtcp.uk

  • In partnership with Business South