Like other aspects of transportation, automation, artificial intelligence, digitalization, and alternative fuels are redefining the maritime industry. The Industrial Revolution 5.0 demands new skills and competencies for seafarers. TRB hosted a webinar on Friday, March 21, 2025 from 11:00 AM to 12:30 PM Eastern that explored how these advancements are shaping future maritime workforce training and development. Presenters discussed the impact of technology and the evolving role of soft skills, such as communication, teamwork, and leadership, in modern maritime operations.
This webinar was sponsored by TRB’s Standing Technical Committee on Marine Safety and Human Factors.
The slides are available. Please contact trbwebinar@nas.edu for a link to the recording. There may be a $90 fee.
 
Webinar agenda and presenters

• U.S. training institution perspective on workforce training needs – Paul Szwed, Massachusetts Maritime Academy
• Maritime labor’s perspective on emerging workforce impacts – Tracey Mayhew, Seafarers’ International Union
• International training institution perspective on workforce training needs – Srđan Vujičić, University of Dubrovnik
• Question and answer session moderated by Cassia Bomer-Galvao, Texas A&M University

The first 60 minutes of the webinar were for presentations and the final 30 minutes were reserved for audience questions.
 
Learning Objectives
At the end of this webinar, participants can:

• Understand how technological advancements are reshaping the skills required for future maritime workforce
• Adjust competency-based training programs to better align with international standards the evolving needs
• Prepare employees for both the technical and soft skills needed for the dynamic and collaborative nature of modern maritime operations

 
Professional Development Hours
This webinar was delivered as a scheduled – e-learning live event and is categorized within RCEP as Technical, Health and Safety.
Professional Development Hours (PDHs) earned on completion of this program were reported to the Registered Continuing Education Program (RCEP). Certificates of Completion are issued to all participants via the RCEP.net online system. Complaints about registered providers may be addressed to RCEP, 1015 15th Street, NW, 8th Fl., Washington, DC, 20005.
American Institute of Certified Planners Certification Maintenance Credits
This webinar was approved by the American Planning Association (APA) for 1.5 Certification Maintenance (CM) Credits. CM credits provide continuing education opportunities for AICP Certified Planners to continue their professional skills and knowledge. To receive CM credits, Certified Planners should visit the TRB event webpage on American Planning Association and register their participation. If you have problems reporting your CM credits or have general questions about the CM program, please contact the APA.