Recruitment Trends in Shipbuilding: A Marine People Perspective
As a leading UK and International shipbuilding recruitment specialist, Marine People has been at the forefront of industry recruitment, helping individuals and leading brands across the globe navigate the waves of change in shipbuilding.
Below, James Martin, Founder and Director at Marine People explores key recruitment trends that have become more prominent when working with clients, and sheds light on the strategies and approaches that many are employing to attract and retain top-tier talent.
Demand for Skilled Labour
One of the foremost trends in shipbuilding recruitment is the increasing demand for skilled labour. With the complexity of projects on the rise, companies are progressively seeking more professionals with expertise in areas such as engineering (mechanical, electrical, naval, etc.), design, and project management. These skilled workers help form the backbone of shipbuilding operations, driving innovation and ensuring the successful completion of projects within budget and schedule constraints.
Focus on Digital Skills
In tandem with the rise in project complexity, there is a growing requirement for respective digital skills. As shipbuilding processes become more digitised, companies are looking to recruit individuals with proficiency in computer-aided design (CAD), 3D modelling, simulation software, and data analytics. These digital skills are becoming increasingly more essential for optimising operations, enhancing efficiency, and making data-driven decisions throughout the project lifecycle.
Global Talent Acquisition
One key aspect driving global talent acquisition in shipbuilding is the quest for niche skills and experience that may be scarce in local talent pools. Whether it's expertise in specialist disciplines, familiarity with specific regulatory frameworks, or a deep understanding of emerging technologies, businesses are becoming increasingly willing to cast their recruitment net globally to find individuals with the right skills and experiences to meet their project requirements.
Diversity and Inclusion
Another significant trend is the focus on diversity and inclusion. Recognising the importance of diverse perspectives and experiences, companies are actively seeking to attract and retain talent from diverse backgrounds, genders, minority groups, and individuals from different cultural and educational backgrounds. By fostering an inclusive work environment, shipbuilding companies aim to promote innovation, creativity, and employee engagement.
Remote Work and Virtual Collaboration
The COVID-19 pandemic has accelerated the adoption of remote work and virtual collaboration tools in the shipbuilding industry. As a result, there is a growing trend towards recruiting professionals who are adept at working remotely and collaborating effectively in virtual environments. Roles such as project managers, digital collaboration specialists, and IT professionals supporting remote work infrastructure are in high demand as companies adapt to the new normal of remote and hybrid work environments.
Leveraging Digital Platforms for Talent Acquisition
In today's interconnected world, having a strong online presence is crucial for career growth and professional success. Social platforms have emerged as pivotal tools, reshaping how shipbuilding talent connects with new opportunities.
With its extensive network of industry professionals, LinkedIn stands out as the industry ‘go-to’ for showcasing skills, expertise, and career aspirations to potential employers within the sector.
Businesses are utilising LinkedIn's advanced search features to identify and connect with potential candidates who possess the specific skills and experience required for various roles in shipbuilding, therefore, particularly for individuals seeking new opportunities, profiles must be a true reflection of an individual’s knowledge and proficiency.
As LinkedIn continues to evolve and expand its influence on recruitment, companies are increasingly leveraging its platform to access a diverse pool of talent and drive recruitment success in the ever-evolving maritime sector.
At Marine People, we’ve established ourselves as trusted partners in shipbuilding recruitment, and remain committed to helping companies navigate the complexities of talent acquisition in the maritime industry. With our deep understanding of global trends and local expertise, we stand ready to assist shipbuilding companies in finding the skilled professionals they need to succeed in an increasingly competitive market.
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