During the years it is observed that the nature of work in every job field, is somehow changing, due to the emerging technologies such as the artificial intelligence, digitalization, automation, cyber security etc. As a result, the skills that employers and companies value and depend on are also transforming, creating a “skills gap”.
To make it clear, skills gap is the difference among the techniques required for a job and the skills that an employee actually performs.
Therefore, because of the skills gap issue, a potential employee may not be able to completely operate the tasks of the job.
However, when it comes to the shipping industry, technological advances have also contributed to skills gap issues within the sector, as crews are required to have skills beyond their mandatory maritime qualifications.
The present and future challenges faced by the maritime industry will create significant pressure on the present model of manning the maritime industry, both on ships and ashore.
Namely, with smart ships dynamically enter into service, there is an increasing demand for a new generation of competent, highly skilled maritime professionals.
There are strong indications that new technologies and the resulting social interactions will significantly affect the required core skill sets, the modes of acquiring skills, and the relationships among key stakeholders, those being active at the labour market(s) as well as others.
… as project SkillSea, co-funded by the Erasmus+ Programme of the European Union, highlighted.
According to a global research issued by Lloyd’s Maritime Academy back in 2019, over than 67% believes that there is a skills gap in the industry and a 20% indicated a gap within technology and IT.
Considering the situation, skills gap in the maritime can lead to severe casualties onboard.
In fact, skills gap in the operational side, puts the vessel along with its personnel and the cargo into danger, while could bring negative impacts in the marine environment as well.
Following the skills gap issue and the difficulties that maritime is dealing with, shipping majors must follow the modern requirements of training.
In other words, shipping players should communicate more effectively with training establishments in order that there is a clear understanding of what the industry actually needs.
In addition, Maritime Skills Commission (MSC) and its Labour Market Intelligence Report, noted that the only part of the maritime with pressing short-term issues which hinder growth, is the building side of the marine leisure sector.
Overall, experts and shipping majors believe that training is the key to the skills gap solution, as it enables shipping industry to prepare the crew for safe and efficient operation and maintenance.