For those seeking a marine career, a Marine Careers Fair offering “Oceans of Opportunity on land and sea” and hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron Isle of Wight Foundation was held in the RYS Pavilion recently.
Within the marine sector there are dozens of careers. These include a career in the Merchant Navy. One young woman had qualified as a 2nd officer and had spent years on board tankers and cruise ships but the opportunity is there on Super Yachts. Away for actually going to sea there are jobs in boatbuilding, harbour management and sailing schools. In fact anything to do with the sea and other waterways is covered by the term marine.
This foundation’s mission is to promote opportunities in the marine industry for young people aged 15 to 29 living on the Island. As well as providing financial assistance, the Foundation offers mentoring and general advice, which plays a vital part in ensuring a greater chance of success for those who are supported.
Members of the RYS fund the foundation which is also supported by the Gosling Foundation, which was established in 1985. H.M. Lord -Lieutenant, Susie Sheldon was in attendance as she was one of the original founding trustees in 2015.There are currently 11 trustees under the chairmanship of James Stevens.
One standholder was boat builder Clare Lallow, which was established in 1867 has an unrivalled tradition of boat building, restoration,woodworking and service. Lallows manages to combine traditional techniques and craftsmanship with modern materials and technology. An apprenticeship with them is a four year term and they aim to take on a new apprentice every other year. “Morning Cloud” 2 and 3 were built in the yard for Sir Ted Heath. Under her new owner number 2 was cheekily renamed “Opposition”.
Wight Shipyard is Europe’s leading high-speed craft and aluminium shipbuilder based in the Columbine Building in East Cowes. As well as building two Red Jets for Red Funnel they have produced the Thames Clipper boats providing river tours in London.
The Merchant Navy Training Board (MNTB) is the definitive source of central industry information, giving guidance on entry routes, training pathways and career progression in the Merchant Navy.
Island RIBs was formed in July 2014 and their RIBs have gained an excellent reputation for performance and build quality. Managing Director Alex Cottle is an engineer with a background in production and product development. Down on the RYS Haven attendees could view for themselves a 7.8 metre model fresh from its appearance at the Southampton International Boat Show, alongside a number of other vessels.
A number of students from various Island schools and colleges were in attendance throughout the day. Younger students were looking for ideas for future careers while those who are in year 11 or above were looking for further information on their chosen career.
