Modern shipping must embrace digital media to a significant extent if it is to attract young and talented individuals to the industry.

says Josephine Le, founder and Managing Director of The Hood Platform.

In recent years, the maritime industry has embraced decarbonisation efforts and digital software solutions, with ship managers, owners, and organisations leading the way. Despite these advancements, there still appears to be a sense of reluctancy that remains towards fully integrating digital media, both onboard and offshore.

Traditional perspectives argue that it’s a distraction and can create isolation, yet mental health experts suggest otherwise. Whilst the principle of moderation still upholds, research highlights the vital role that digital media plays in fostering connectivity, supporting crew wellbeing and reducing feelings of loneliness, particularly when the industry seeks to attract and retain the next generation of maritime professionals.

Maritime has a rich history of diversity due to its globality, with various cultures, traditions and beliefs. The nature of the business enables professionals to travel across the world for work and experience different walks of life along the way. Despite this, there is still a sense of fragmentation within the industry, making it seem backwards and much less appealing to possible younger candidates. Whilst this may have been the norm in the past, there is simply no justification for it to continue when the tools and technology to bridge these gaps are readily available.

Younger generations that are entering the maritime industry such as Gen-Z and Gen Alpha are drawn to work for companies that are not only innovative but also future-focused. They want to work for people who are seen to embrace cutting-edge technology, such as AI, automation, and solutions with a positive environmental impact. These generations are motivated by not just a paycheck but careers that allow them to contribute to meaningful, forward-thinking initiatives. They want to be part of industries that share similar values to their own and prioritise sustainability, wellbeing, and progress.

This is why maritime cannot afford to remain in the shadows if it wants fresh talent. Young people today live online. They discover careers, assess company culture, and form decisions based on what they see and hear through social and digital media, now primary modern sources of information. If shipping doesn’t show up there, it gets overlooked – simple as that. Platforms such as LinkedIn, Instagram, and TikTok have become essentials in shaping perceptions and influencing decisions.

In order for the industry to connect with younger generations, it must do so authentically. Young talent today expects ongoing communication, including job opportunities, honest industry updates, open Q&As, and remediation. Digital spaces offer the perfect environment to strengthen both professional and personal relationships through engagement and efficiency.

Young talent is essential in shaping the next generation of industry leaders and innovators. At The Hood, we are committed to attracting young professionals to the maritime and energy sectors by designing a platform that supports career growth and fosters meaningful connections. Our user-friendly interface streamlines the application process, making it much easier to explore job opportunities, build professional profiles, and network with peers. Beyond career tools, we also offer features such as a news feed, wellbeing page, The Hood empowers young maritime professionals to thrive and make an impact in the industry.

The bottom line is clear: going digital is not an option, it is a must. From interactive career pages to impactful social media posts, the shipping industry must showcase its technological innovations, environmental progress, and global influence.

Through embracing digital platforms, maritime can demonstrate that it is not an outdated industry but one that is shaping the future of global trade. Boldy adopting digital media will help to attract the brightest minds ready to make an impact. Resist this shift, and in just a few years, it’ll be left behind.