Human skills, often called “soft skills”, have developed over the last 10 years, reflecting the unique context of the maritime and shipping industries. Due to global trade, onboard operations, regulatory pressures, and technological integration, the key human skills in this sector have evolved.
What Are Human Skills?
Human skills refer to the abilities that make us uniquely human and are essential for working effectively with others, adapting to change, and thriving in professional environments. Unlike technical skills (e.g., operating machinery or coding), human skills focus on how we interact, think, and grow. Think of it as the people skills and personal qualities that help you understand relationships, solve problems creatively, and handle challenges, especially in a world where technology like AI is becoming more common.
Human Skills Then and Now (2015 vs 2025)
In 2015, human skills in maritime careers were largely operational, focused on efficiency, safety, and compliance. Key skills included clear communication, teamwork, problem-solving, leadership, and situational awareness, shaped by an industry reliant on manual processes, established regulations, and in-person coordination.
In 2025, the industry will have transformed due to digitalisation, automation, sustainability pressures, and complex global supply chains. This evolution has shifted employer priorities, placing greater emphasis on adaptability and human-AI collaboration, while still valuing core operational competencies. The World Economic Forum’s Future of Jobs Report 2025 highlights analytical thinking, resilience, flexibility, and leadership as top competencies across industries, including maritime.
These trends underpin the Top 5 Human Skills for Maritime Careers in 2025, which combine core operational strengths with the adaptability, collaboration, and innovation required to succeed in a rapidly evolving industry.
Emotional Intelligence (EQ): EQ is essential for managing diverse, multicultural teams and fostering collaboration in high-pressure environments. With remote monitoring and shore-based oversight on the rise, EQ bridges gaps between onboard and shore teams, especially in hybrid communication settings.
Adaptability/Resilience: The industry faces rapid changes, new environmental regulations (e.g., IMO 2030 decarbonisation goals), autonomous vessel technologies, and supply chain disruptions. Seafarers and shore-based staff must adapt to new tools and handle uncertainty, such as port delays or cyber threats.
Critical Thinking with Digital/AI Integration: As the industry adopts smart technologies, workers need to interpret data, validate AI recommendations, and make informed decisions. Unlike 2015, when problem-solving was largely manual, today it requires tech literacy and ethical judgment.
Digital Collaboration: The rise of remote operations and digital platforms has shifted teamwork into virtual spaces. Skills in using digital tools and collaborating across global teams are now essential, complementing the traditional focus on in-person coordination.
Change Leadership and Innovation: With sustainability initiatives like alternative fuels and green shipping, leaders must inspire innovation and guide teams through transitions. This extends beyond traditional leadership to motivating teams in adopting low-carbon technologies and navigating evolving regulatory landscapes.
As the maritime industry continues to evolve, so too do the human skills that drive success. Investing in these skills not only enhances your effectiveness in day-to-day operations but also positions you for long-term career growth in a rapidly changing industry.
To stay ahead, consider exploring training opportunities, building your network, and registering with Faststream Recruitment to access job alerts that align with your skills and ambitions. By developing your human skills today, you’ll be well-prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of maritime careers in 2025 and beyond.
