Companies talk skills at recent MareNet event
A recent round-table MareNet held in partnership with SEMTA (Sector Skills Council for science, engineering and manufacturing technologies) at Hythe Marine Park in September, brought key public sector organisations together with marine companies to discuss the major skills and career development issues affecting the marine industry today.
Some of the key items raised by marine companies attending the event included:
- A lack of relevantly skilled workers as many young people turn to more 'glamorous' industries.
- Training available isn't always relevant to marine businesses. Training providers need to ensure training opportunities on offer address skill shortages by working more closely with companies right along the South Coast.
- University graduates have little or no practical experience.
- Problems with course accreditation
- Need to work more closely with schools to recruit for apprenticeship schemes. Need to educate Parents, Careers Advisers and Schools that apprenticeships are not for 'low achievers' but require young people with good numeracy, literacy and communication skills. They should also be aware that there is a need for a good 'work ethos'.
- Assessment of training placements needs to be more cohesive with better continuity of assessments. More opportunities for progression for those willing to train.
- A need for more apprenticeship opportunities for adults, particularly in the light of more people being made redundant.
- Greater diversity of training opportunities in marine industry for example for crews, marine gas fitters, boatyard and marina operators.
- Training in the most up to date technology methods needed in composites and CAD CAM, particularly ensuring that Universities are up to date with methods being used in industry.
- Greater training needed in people and project management.
The views given by the employers will be used by SEMTA and other organisations to tailor and improve training for businesses. If any of these issues sound familiar then try getting in touch with Business Link for free, impartial skills advice by calling 0845 600 9 006 or email info@businesslinksoutheast.co.uk
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