Empowering Youth for a Future in Marine and Hydrographic Survey Industries: Insights from UTM Consultants
This World Youth Skills Day, Oceanology International dives into the exciting world of offshore and onshore hydrographic survey, ROV, inspection, renewables and marine careers with experts from UTM Consultants, a leading recruitment, HR and project partner in the offshore industry.
The interview with Savvas Papadopoulos, Operations Director, and Sam Coggins, Renewables Director at UTM Consultants, sheds light on the vast opportunities this industry offers young minds passionate about making a difference.
Key Takeaways:
- The offshore and onshore hydrographic survey, ROV, inspection, renewables and marine sector is experiencing rapid growth, particularly in renewables. This translates to a high demand for skilled professionals across various disciplines.
- While offshore positions exist, numerous onshore and remote roles are available in areas like data processing, project management, engineering, and even legal and financial services.
- The industry is embracing new technologies like autonomous underwater vehicles (AUVs) and unmanned surface vessels (USVs), creating opportunities for those skilled in automation and data analysis.
- UTM Consultants offers valuable resources like green skills programs and partnerships with universities and clients to bridge the gap between fresh graduates and industry needs.
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March 10-12, 2026 | ExCeL London
A Growing Industry with Diverse Needs
The world's oceans face unprecedented challenges due to climate change, and food and energy security concerns. These pressing issues require innovative solutions, and the good news is - the offshore and onshore hydrographic survey, ROV, inspection, renewables and marine industries is booming! This sector offers a wide range of career paths, not just for those who want to be on the water.
Skills in Demand
While offshore field experience is valuable, UTM Consultants emphasises that many in-demand roles don't require getting your feet wet. Here are some of the highly sought-after skillsets:
- Project Management
- Surveying
- Client Representation
- Data Processing
- Geophysics
- Geology
- ROV piloting
- Renewables expertise (wind, cable, operations & maintenance)
- Engineering (to design and install automation systems)
- Data Analysis
The industry is rapidly evolving, and automation is on the rise. This creates a need for survey engineers to develop and maintain these autonomous systems.
Beyond the Obvious: Remote Work Opportunities
The traditional image of a career in this field might be someone on a ship at sea. However, the industry offers surprising flexibility. Thanks partly to advancements spurred by the COVID-19 pandemic, many companies now embrace remote work options. This opens doors for those who prefer land-based roles. Data processing, hydrographic surveying (using AUVs and USVs), and even some ROV piloting can all be done remotely.
Empowering the Next Generation and Overcoming Challenges
Recognising the ageing workforce in the industry, UTM Consultants are committed to bringing new talent into the field. They offer a Green Skills Program that provides young people with certificates for offshore work, often government-funded, giving them a stepping stone into the industry. Collaboration with clients for mentorship and internships is a key part of their strategy.
One of the biggest challenges young people face is the high demand for experienced professionals. UTM Consultants address this by advocating for apprenticeships and partnerships with clients to provide hands-on experience. They help students format their CVs and guide them in applying for roles, emphasising the importance of practical skills and on-the-job training.
Explore the latest technologies shaping the future of Ocean Exploration, Sustainability and the Blue Economy
March 10-12, 2026 | ExCeL London
How to Get Your Foot in the Door
- Network and Attend Industry Events: Events like Oceanology International provide a platform to connect with industry professionals and learn about career opportunities.
- Seek Guidance: Recruitment agencies specialising in the offshore industry can offer valuable advice and connect you with relevant positions.
- Explore Training Programs: Several training programs equip individuals with the necessary skills to enter the workforce.
- Research the industry: Learn about the different sectors within the marine and oceanography field, such as hydrography, ROVs, and renewables.
- Consider transferable skills: If you're coming from a different industry, explore how your existing skills and experience can be applied to this growing field.
Looking Ahead
The future of the offshore and onshore hydrographic survey, ROV, inspection, renewables and marine industries is brimming with potential. With its focus on sustainability and cutting-edge technology, this sector offers a rewarding career path for a new generation of ocean enthusiasts and problem-solvers.
If you're a young individual interested in a career in the offshore and onshore hydrographic survey, ROV, inspection, renewables and marine industries, UTM Consultants encourages you to visit their website (www.utmconsultants.com) and connect with them on LinkedIn. They offer valuable resources, including job postings and career advice, to help you navigate your journey.
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About the Oceanology International Portfolio
Oceanology International – Connecting the global ocean technology, engineering and science communities
Oceanology International (Oi) is the global forum where the ocean industry, academia and government connect to discover innovative solutions from the ocean technology and marine science communities to improve strategies for exploring, protecting and sustainably operating in the world’s oceans and waterways. Held at ExCeL London, Oi brings together ocean professionals, facilitates ocean connections and showcases ocean innovation and technology.
www.oceanologyinternational.com
Oi exhibition and conference incorporates various events and features, including:
- COAST - The Coastal and Shallow Water Zone
New for 2026, COAST at Oceanology International offers exhibitors a unique platform to showcase their solutions, technologies, and expertise to a highly targeted and engaged audience from across the global coastal and shallow water community.
- Conference Program – Diving deep into the realm of ocean science and marine technology
Featuring a compelling line-up of industry-leading speakers, the full strategic Oi Conference Program encompasses a diverse range of Technical Sessions and Ocean Futures-focused content across different conference locations. World-class scientists, thought leaders and innovators in the vanguard of the global ocean technology community will converge to bring insightful and original content.
- Ocean Futures Theatre – Meeting future ocean technology needs
Thought leaders from industry, academia and government come together to discuss meeting future ocean technology needs in line with market developments and new ocean enterprise strategies. Held in the keynote Ocean Futures Theatre within Oi, it features panel discussions and strategic debates on topics including Transitioning the Ocean Economy, Sustainable Offshore Operations, BlueTech Investment and Future Talent/Careers.
- Dockside Demonstrations
Oceanology International’s dockside activity is a hallmark feature of the event, offering visitors live, in-water demonstrations of the latest ocean technology and equipment. Attendees have the unique opportunity to see cutting-edge remotely operated vehicles (ROVs), autonomous systems, sonar, imaging, and hydrographic survey tools in real-world action, guided by experts. These demonstrations take place at the Royal Victoria Dock, where multiple brands and vessels showcase novel capabilities—allowing participants to closely observe technological innovations and interact with operators, all with the goal of experiencing emerging solutions for marine and subsea applications firsthand.
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