Futureproofing industry skills through training

Sharing Experience: Gemma Mills, Harwich Haven Authority

As the Government prioritises getting Britain back to work, Harwich Haven Authority is taking proactive steps to close the skills gap within the maritime industry.

As a major UK trust port, we provide critical services to five port operators within the Haven area. This includes pilotage, maintenance of the approach channel into the harbour and the continuous monitoring of vessel movements – all essential functions that support safe and efficient navigation.

Many of our operational employees have built long and rewarding careers with us, with some serving for over two decades. The depth of knowledge and specialist skills – particularly within our Pilotage and Pilot Launch Crews – take years to develop. Recognising the potential risk of losing this expertise over time, we made a strategic decision to invest in our people. Through forward-thinking workforce planning and a comprehensive talent development strategy, we are not only preserving critical skills, but also futureproofing our operations for the challenges and opportunities ahead.

Training for our requirements

We design our recruitment campaigns to attract a diverse range of applicants, reflecting our commitment to being an inclusive employer and challenging the stereotypes that exist within our industry. We believe our selection process highlights the importance of mutual fit – it’s just as much about candidates choosing us as it is about us selecting the right person for the role – and we hire based on attitude and aptitude, knowing we can equip our apprentices with the skills they need.

The programme is open to individuals aged 18 and over, from all backgrounds – whether you’re a school leaver, a career changer or someone looking for a new direction.

As a Real Living Wage employer, we recognise the commitment our apprentices make and the diverse responsibilities they take on. Marine Apprentices receive a competitive salary of £28,130, along with access to the Authority’s full range of benefits, including private healthcare.

Our training is tailored to meet the specific needs of our organisation. Alongside residential training blocks, we actively collaborate with local stakeholders to offer additional learning opportunities designed to broaden apprentices’ skills and knowledge. Through high-quality, hands-on experience and accredited qualifications, we’re investing in future talent and equipping our people with the expertise to lead across the maritime sector.

Our apprenticeships are designed to open doors. They not only build capacity and resilience within our own teams, but also contribute skilled, qualified individuals to the wider workforce – helping to strengthen the maritime industry as a whole.

We currently have 12 Marine Apprentices and one IT Apprentice, each gaining hands-on experience while working towards industry-recognised qualifications. Alongside these, we’re supporting a Trainee Hydrographer through our Graduate Training Scheme – a structured programme that combines practical, on-the-job learning with college-based education.

These pathways not only help build our internal capability but also contribute to the wider maritime sector by developing skilled, confident individuals ready to take on critical roles in the future.