The latest meeting of our Maritime & Transport Action Group (MTAG) discussed key opportunities and challenges facing the region’s maritime and transport sectors, including careers, port electrification, the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and regional connectivity.
Preparing for the MTCP Careers Day
Katie Bruce (Maritime & Transport Careers Programme – MTCP) and Kate Johnston (Carnival) shared details of the MTCP’s upcoming Careers Day, taking place on 19 November at ABP Ocean Cruise Terminal. The event will bring together schools and maritime and transport employers, giving young people the opportunity to learn about careers across the sector.
Book your place at MTCP Careers Day 2026
Members also discussed opportunities for businesses to collaborate on shared work experience placements, helping to create more opportunities for young people to gain practical experience and explore different roles across the maritime and transport sectors.
The group also explored ways to increase awareness of maritime careers through social media, including apprenticeship stories, behind-the-scenes content and company updates. For the latest news, career opportunities and insights into the maritime and transport sectors, follow the Maritime & Transport Careers Programme (MTCP) on Facebook, LinkedIn and Instagram, or visit the MTCP website.
Supporting port electrification and decarbonisation
Chair Gary Whittle (Meachers) briefed members on ongoing work around Southampton Port electrification, highlighting the importance of securing sufficient electricity capacity to support future operations and decarbonisation.
The group looked ahead to the upcoming port electrification roundtable, which will bring together industry representatives and political stakeholders to discuss the challenges, opportunities and infrastructure requirements associated with electrification.
Exploring responsible AI in the maritime sector
Dr John Flackett (Ai Lab) shared how businesses can move beyond simply using AI tools and incorporate them more effectively into day-to-day operations. Members discussed the importance of integrating AI into existing processes, rather than allowing its use to remain fragmented across different teams. The need for appropriate training, governance and safeguards around privacy and data security was also highlighted as an important consideration for responsible adoption.
The upcoming Responsible Generative AI in Maritime workshop, taking place on 15 October at Beaulieu Hotel, will provide an opportunity for organisations to explore practical applications of AI and how it can be adopted responsibly.
Find out more and book: Responsible Generative AI workshop
Strengthening political engagement and regional priorities
The group also considered how MTAG could contribute priorities to a potential mayoral manifesto, helping to ensure that the needs of the maritime and transport sectors are represented in future regional discussions. Members were invited to share their views to help shape these priorities and ensure industry perspectives are reflected.
Through continued collaboration between businesses, local authorities and political stakeholders, MTAG will work to identify shared challenges and opportunities and support the long-term development of the region’s maritime and transport sectors.
