Top Reasons to Pursue a Career in Shipping

The shipping industry is evolving at a rapid rate.  This presents plenty of opportunities for those searching for maritime jobs across a variety of roles, either at sea or onshore.  Shipping plays a critical role in logistics and supply-chain management, and therefore offers a challenging and rewarding career for the right individuals.  This article will set out the top reasons why you should pursue a career in shipping.

Choice of roles

The sheer scale of different roles available in the shipping industry means that there is variety, whatever your skillset, for building a successful career.  This means you can progress vertically as you take on more responsibility or develop horizontally as you switch jobs within the industry.  Whatever route you take, there is no danger of feeling bored from any lack of opportunity.  

Career journey for all

Given its global nature, shipping is known for being incredibly non-discriminatory.  The breadth of nationalities, religions, cultures and ages means that you’re mixing with colleagues of all kinds.  And so, whether you excelled academically in your studies or whether you have practical hands-on skills, brand new entrants to the shipping industry are welcome.  You could be ex-military looking for your next adventure on the seas or a budding operations manager seeking a role onshore.  

Close network for years

Roles in shipping can often mean long periods of time away from family.  This creates a close bond with your colleagues who you spend plenty of hours with on vessels taking care of one another’s safety.  The sometimes tough and challenging environment makes the friendship bonds tight, and plenty in the industry report that the connections they build end up lasting a lifetime.  

Personal growth

The ongoing learning opportunities within the shipping industry are second to none.  Technology is cutting-edge and shipping regulations are constantly evolving, which keeps you sharp and up to date with modern advances.  Those working in shipping also find that they develop a strong sense of independence, resilience and problem-solving abilities that benefit them hugely for succeeding in life, in general.  

A globally significant industry

The shipping industry is at the heart of the world’s logistical operation.  An entire global supply-chain depends on shipping to move goods and supplies essential to consumers and businesses around the planet.  This significance brings opportunities and handsome rewards for those wishing to be part of the industry.  

Explore the world

Finally, a career in shipping opens up the world to you.  The typical monotony that can come in other industries from working in the same location year after year does not apply to shipping.  Here, you can discover the world and all its beauty as you build a career that gives you the opportunity to work from multiple locations.

There are plenty of strong reasons for pursuing a career in shipping.  Whatever your background or skillset, there is a role available for you.  If you want to be challenged and rewarded, working in a globally critical industry that allows you to explore the world and grow personally alongside colleagues who quickly become friends, then this is the industry for you. 

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