Strengthening the bridge between academia and industry

Clarksons was once again pleased to host the Maritime Masters finalist event to both online and in-person delegates, for the fourth year running. Maritime Masters Week focuses on engaging students around the UK to strengthen the ‘bridge’ between industry and academia. As sponsors of the event, we are proud to help create connections and support the student’s learnings.

At Clarksons we believe it is important to encourage young talent. We foster diversity, inclusion, and collaboration in everything we do, both inside and outside the company. By hosting the event, attending universities and careers fairs we believe we can help young talent to explore the trade and the variety of career paths available.

Malcolm Willingale, who leads the learning and development at Clarksons, hosted this years’ event. We were joined by last year’s winner, Badr Moutik, who discussed his ambition to promote the programme and its potential to encourage young adults, whilst giving them great experiences which help to develop and strengthen their skills.

Eight students from universities up and down the UK presented on an array of topics, from the green transition to robotics and autonomous systems. With no more than five minutes each to present their idea, the finalists then faced the expert judging panel for questioning.

As the panel deliberated, audience members were also provided the opportunity to cast a vote for best presentation. The level of quality and extent of research shown by all of the candidates was very high, and each received a certificate to recognise their hard work. After much discussion and deliberation, the winner was announced as Aiden Carroll of the University of Plymouth.

Announcing the winner, Malcom says “Aiden’s research topic addressed seafarer retention and focused on the reasons why people leave a seafaring career during an officer cadetship or before they reach a senior officer position. Well done Aiden for your research, presentation, and charisma.”

Aiden commented

Clarksons is proud to sponsor and host the competition. The business will continue to collaborate with Maritime UK and support young people from a variety of backgrounds who participate and attend. We notice a year-on-year improvement in standards achieved and eagerly await next year’s competition.