The maritime industry is a pivotal, vibrant, and dynamic one – in the Bay Area and throughout the world. By 2030 the ocean economy will be worth $3 trillion. Rapid advances in technology and innovation are reshaping the maritime industry. The types of skills required for the maritime ocean workforce are, and will be, changing over the next several years.

 

Partly due to digitalization, decarbonization and other developments, fewer people will be directly working upon the seas, but human crews onboard cargo ships and established maritime occupations will be around for the foreseeable future.

 

A healthy, thriving maritime industry depends upon the welfare and well-being of the seafarers who navigate the giant vessels across the ocean waters. Without the dedication, commitment, and professionalism of seafarers, the whole fabric of global trade as we know it would fall apart.

Maritime welfare organizations, like Seafarers Ministry of the Golden Gate at The International Maritime Center [faith-based and secular], provide the practical services and support that enhance the wellbeing and promote the human rights of the all-important seafarers. Seafarers of all ages and nationalities work an average of 80 hours a week (plus overtime) to bring us these necessary goods and as an international population, are often exploited. Work on board ships can be isolating, and seafarers are at a much higher risk for depression, divorce, and suicide.

 

Although the types of issues and concerns affecting ship crew members may change, the need for the offerings of maritime welfare organizations -- a listening ear and a welcoming face, access to free transportation, high-speed Internet, pre-paid phone cards and a comfortable place to relax and unwind for those who are at sea for long stretches of time – will always remain essential.

 

Cultivating a new generation of career professionals and leaders for the maritime sector is a key objective of SMGG’s Strategic Action Agenda for 2025 [adopted in 2021]. TOMORROW CORPS is SMGG’s signature program effort to pursue its goal.

​

TOMORROW CORPS is a new maritime welfare training program specifically designed to equip a new generation with the skills and knowledge needed to support maritime welfare. Additionally, maritime welfare training and service exposes young people to the various sectors and emerging career opportunities within the maritime industry. Even as the maritime industry moves to keep up with the pace of technological change, hiring and keeping talent is a challenge.

​

TOMORROW CORPS is especially committed to encouraging young people from communities of color, and young women, to explore the growing opportunities in the maritime industry.