Young people across the Isle of Wight considering their next steps after school, college or sixth form are invited to discover the career opportunities available within the maritime industry at 2 dedicated UKSA Careers Days this November.
Taking place at UKSA’s new Victoria Barracks campus in East Cowes on Tuesday 3rd and Thursday 5th November 2026, the events will bring together leading maritime employers, industry professionals and students to explore career pathways, training opportunities and routes into employment.
Both Careers Days are open to the public, welcoming young people from across the Isle of Wight, particularly those aged 16/17 and above who are exploring their next steps after GCSEs, A-levels, sixth form or college. Whether considering a career at sea, onshore or in watersports, the events offer an opportunity to discover the exciting pathways available within the maritime industry.
Tuesday 3rd November will showcase the diverse opportunities available across the maritime sector, including superyachts, commercial vessels, yacht management, brokerage, charter operations and shore-based careers.
Leading industry organisations including Burgess, Edmiston, Hill Robinson, Bespoke Crew, Sailing Holidays, MIMO Connect, Robertson ETOs, Reedman Wealth Management, the Isle of Wight College and ASTO will be attending, offering visitors the opportunity to speak directly with industry professionals and gain valuable insight into working within the sector.
Thursday 5th November will focus specifically on careers in watersports, with organisations including Neilson, Rockley Watersports, Mark Warner, Camp America and Andrew Simpson Centres highlighting instructor qualifications, employment opportunities and progression routes within the sector, both in the UK and overseas.
Catherine Dixon, CEO of UKSA, said:
“At UKSA, we’re passionate about helping young people recognise the opportunities available to them and giving them the confidence to take their next steps. The maritime industry offers an incredible range of careers, many of which young people may never have considered or even realised were an option.
“By bringing employers and industry professionals together, we want to open doors, broaden horizons and help more young Islanders see the potential for a rewarding future within the maritime sector.”
Jack Grundy, Head of Maritime Education at UKSA, added:
“These Careers Days are a fantastic opportunity for young people to speak directly with employers, explore different career pathways and understand the qualifications and training that can help them get started. We’re looking forward to welcoming visitors to Victoria Barracks and showcasing just how much the maritime industry has to offer.”
Both events are free and will run from 09:00 to 15:30 at UKSA, Victoria Barracks, East Cowes.
Places for external visitors are limited, and advance registration is required. Anyone under 18 must be accompanied by a parent or guardian. To register your interest, visit: https://uksa.org/maritime-career-days26
