SINGAPORE – Maritime transport specialist AET is sponsoring scholars and interns from next year in a bid to build up the talent pipeline in the industry. The company announced its talent development partnership with the Singapore Maritime Foundation from 2025 to 2027.

AET and SMF will select four scholars and two interns each year as part of the AET-MaritimeONE partnership. The collaboration – which has been in place for five years – includes initiatives that “connect scholars to industry mentors” and offers “meaningful exposure to the maritime sector,” AET said.

With a newly signed memorandum of understanding, SMF will serve as the programme manager focused on growing the Singaporean maritime talent pool.

The MaritimeONE scholarships and internships have been awarded to over 63 students in 2024. The scholarships provide not only financial support but also access to industry networking, mentorship, and practical internships.

Partners like AET ensure students receive targeted training. This holistic approach aims to nurture talent that is both technically proficient and environmentally conscious, preparing them for leadership roles in a transforming maritime sector.

Singapore as a global maritime hub

Singapore is hailed as an important hub in the global maritime industry. The country “continues to lead the way in driving innovation and progress within the maritime sector that is increasingly being transformed by technology and sustainability,” AET said.

“These developments highlight the need for a highly skilled and adaptable maritime workforce equipped to work with alternative fuels, adopt advanced technologies, and navigate a rapidly changing industry,” the company said.

The partnership aims to nurture maritime talent by giving them industry-specific training and real-world experience.

“As the headquarters of AET, Singapore is a cornerstone of our operations and today’s MoU – the first of its kind for AET – underscores our commitment to supporting the future of the maritime industry,” said Zahid Osman, president and CEO of AET.

“As such, we are proud to deepen our collaboration with the SMF to support the future of our industry. As the maritime sector undergoes profound changes, fostering a pipeline of skilled, future ready talent is essential for driving progress and ensuring long-term resilience,” Osman said.

“By providing meaningful opportunities for aspiring maritime professionals, we aim to empower the next generation of leaders to shape a sustainable and innovative future.”

SMF Chairman Hor Weng Yew lauded AET’s commitment to developing young talent in the sector. “Together we will position more students for successful maritime careers through SMF’s suite of talent development programmes,” he said.

Developing Singapore’s maritime talent

Singapore is said to be actively enhancing its maritime talent pool through several initiatives. The proposed Hub for Future Skills aims to train both sea-going and shore-based professionals, addressing skill gaps identified by the SMF and during industry consultations.

Targeted training programmes are also being developed to equip professionals with skills in digitalisation and sustainability, ensuring the workforce meets industry demands.

Training at the Hub for Future Skills in Singapore will include handling green fuels for sea-going roles and equipping shore-based professionals with skills in environmental, social, and governance reporting.

The hub aims to coordinate upskilling efforts with educational institutions, promoting international exposure and practical experiences to broaden perspectives. This initiative addresses the industry’s transformation needs, ensuring that both sea-going and shore-based personnel are prepared for the future maritime landscape, the SMF said.

Other collaborations, such as the recent MoU with Pertamina International Shipping, will provide scholarships and internships to connect youth with maritime careers.