The PTC Group's Lifelong Maritime Talent Pipeline develops maritime professionals from childhood through global employment. Connecting industry, education, government, and communities, it integrates career awareness, STCW training, mentoring, cadetship, and recruitment into one continuous journey. Through key programs, the pipeline has reached over 49,000 primary students, engaged 30,000 young people, and built a talent pool exceeding 68,000, strengthening workforce readiness and global shipping sustainability.

Orca AI combines AI-powered computer vision, day and thermal cameras, and ship sensor data for safer navigation. Continuous visual watchkeeping helps detect hazards early, even in poor visibility. Crews assess risks in real time, while shore teams review data to identify trends and support training. The platform works alongside existing bridge equipment, supporting informed decisions with the master always in command.

Bernhard Schulte Shipmanagement’s (BSM’s) Alternative Fuels Training Programme equips seafarers for safe use of methanol, ethyl alcohol, and ammonia fuels, bridging an industry experience gap. Aligned with pending IMO guidelines and future STCW/IGF Code changes, it blends simulator-based shore training, verified onboard practice, and expert takeover support. Competence is formally assessed and certified. Alternative fuel safety is now woven into BSM’s operational, technical, and HR standards. So far, the programme has trained over 500 seafarers, handled five methanol vessels, and delivered zero incidents or downtime, setting a new readiness standard.

Fleet Management accelerates the maritime energy transition through integrated decarbonisation, operational innovation, and workforce readiness. The initiative pairs emissions cuts with dual-fuel and alternative-fuel training delivered through the Fleet Management Training Institute (FMTI) and International Maritime Institute (IMI), plus trials in wind propulsion, carbon capture, and ammonia familiarisation, preparing vessels and crews for low/zero-emission operations and helping customers navigate fuel uncertainty while building sustainable shipping skills.

IMEC’s Period Dignity Scheme improved health, wellbeing and inclusion of female cadets preparing for careers at sea. Informed by 62 midshipwomen, it provides free menstrual products, health education, sustainable options, and welfare support. Cadet feedback shows greater confidence, reduced anxiety, and better preparedness. By addressing period poverty, it promotes dignity, equality, and retention of future women seafarers in a traditionally male-dominated sector.

Gordon Foot’s career spans offshore client work, leadership, safety, and seafarer welfare. He champions psychological safety, respect, allyship, and lifelong learning onboard, while mentoring students from MLA College, Plymouth University, and Plymouth YMCA. Through extensive mentoring, charity fundraising, and industry leadership, he shows how kindness, integrity, and a commitment to empowering others can create a lasting impact across the maritime industry.

Chief MAKOi (Chief Engineer Mark Phillip Laurilla), with over 25 years at sea, is voted by the audience as the winner of the Industry Champion Award for building a trusted global platform that guides aspiring seafarers and cadets through honest advice on seafaring life. Combining roles as a seafarer, instructor, professor, and PHILCAMSAT training executive, he modernises maritime education through digital transformation, while consistently informing and inspiring the next generation through educational content, school engagements, and advocacy centred on discipline, competence, and resilience.