An Overview of the Shipbuilding Labour Market: The LeaderSHIP EU Project

In recent years, the maritime technology and shipbuilding industry, including yachts and pleasure crafts as well as marine structures, have faced significant challenges, such as technological advancements, environmental sustainability, and global competitiveness. This article presents a comprehensive investigation conducted within the European project LeaderSHIP, focusing on the current state of training programs for workers in the sector and specifically identifying emerging and urgent skills necessary for future success. Using a mixed-methods approach, data were collected through surveys distributed to industry professionals, educational institution representatives, and companies. The results highlight a disparity between the skills demanded by employers and those provided by training programs. Notably, the investigation reveals critical gaps in essential areas such as sustainable design, technological innovation, and resource management, underscoring the need for immediate action. The analysis emphasizes the importance of continuous updating and a closer alignment between academia and industry. It suggests that collaboration between educational institutions and businesses could significantly enhance training quality. Implementing practical learning programs and internships, along with creating flexible curricula that can adapt to the sector’s dynamic needs, is proposed as a vital strategy to address these gaps. Finally, the article discusses future perspectives for training in maritime technology, stressing the necessity to invest in advanced skills and foster a culture of innovation. This study provides valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and entrepreneurs, highlighting the critical need for an integrated approach to effectively tackle the challenges posed by emerging and urgent skills in the shipbuilding industry.