Young Islanders considering a career in the marine industry were given the chance to explore a wide range of opportunities both on land and at sea when a special careers fair was held at the Royal Yacht Squadron Pavilion in Cowes last week.
The ‘Oceans of Opportunity’ event, hosted by the Royal Yacht Squadron Isle of Wight Foundation, brought together marine businesses and industry organisations to showcase potential career paths, apprenticeships and training opportunities.
The Foundation aims to help young people aged between 15 and 29 living on the Isle of Wight pursue careers in the marine sector, offering financial assistance, mentoring and practical advice to give them the best possible chance of success.
Funded by members of the Royal Yacht Squadron, with additional support from the Gosling Foundation, the organisation was established in 2015 and currently has 11 trustees under the chairmanship of James Stevens.
Among those attending the fair on 1st October was HM Lord-Lieutenant of the Isle of Wight, Susie Sheldon, who was one of the Foundation’s original founding trustees.
A number of well-established marine businesses were represented, including historic Cowes boatbuilder Clare Lallow, which dates back to 1867.
The company combines traditional boatbuilding and woodworking techniques with modern materials and technology, offering 4-year apprenticeships and aiming to recruit a new apprentice every other year.
The yard is perhaps best known for building Morning Cloud 2 and 3 for former Prime Minister Sir Ted Heath, with Morning Cloud 2 later being cheekily renamed ‘Opposition’ by a subsequent owner.
Also represented was Wight Shipyard, based in the Columbine Building in East Cowes, which specialises in high-speed aluminium vessels.
The company has built 2 Red Jets for Red Funnel, as well as Thames Clipper vessels used on the River Thames in London.
The Merchant Navy Training Board was on hand to provide guidance on routes into the Merchant Navy, including training options and opportunities for career progression.
Another Island business showcasing its work was Island RIBs, established in July 2014 and headed by Managing Director Alex Cottle.
Visitors were able to see a 7.8-metre RIB at the Royal Yacht Squadron Haven, fresh from its appearance at the Southampton International Boat Show, alongside several other vessels.
Students from schools and colleges across the Isle of Wight attended throughout the day, with younger pupils exploring possible future career options and those in Year 11 and above seeking more detailed information about their chosen paths.
The event highlighted the range of opportunities available within the marine industry, from traditional boatbuilding and engineering to commercial shipping and specialist vessel manufacturing.
