GITNUXREPORT 2025

Upskilling And Reskilling In The Maritime Industry Statistics

Maritime industry invests heavily in upskilling to address skills gaps and technology.

Jannik Linder

Co-Founder of Gitnux, specialized in content and tech since 2016.

First published: April 29, 2025

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Statistic 1

The global digitalization market in maritime training is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8% from 2023 to 2030, indicating sustained investment

Statistic 2

The use of blockchain technology in training certification is being trialed by 22% of maritime companies to improve credentialing processes

Statistic 3

More than 80% of maritime training providers now incorporate simulation-based learning, reflecting technology-driven educational methods

Statistic 4

Women’s participation in maritime skill development programs increased by 20% over the last five years, promoting diversity and inclusion

Statistic 5

The number of women enrolled in maritime technical courses increased by 30% over the last three years, supporting gender diversity initiatives

Statistic 6

66% of maritime companies invest in multicultural and multilingual training to support international crew composition, promoting inclusivity

Statistic 7

Only 35% of maritime workers feel confident in their digital skills, highlighting the need for reskilling

Statistic 8

70% of maritime workers agree that upskilling opportunities improve job satisfaction and retention

Statistic 9

58% of maritime employers believe that continuous education is essential for compliance with evolving international regulations

Statistic 10

Fleet operators investing in crew upskilling saw a 15% reduction in operational errors

Statistic 11

Maritime safety incidents decreased by 18% in companies with comprehensive upskilling programs, indicating improved safety culture

Statistic 12

38% of maritime companies reported challenges in developing effective remote training programs, citing technological barriers and engagement issues

Statistic 13

58% of maritime employees feel that ongoing education opportunities are essential for career advancement, according to industry surveys

Statistic 14

48% of maritime companies actively evaluate the effectiveness of their training programs through measurable KPIs, emphasizing data-driven development

Statistic 15

Maritime industry’s upskilling initiatives have contributed to a 23% reduction in workplace accidents over the past five years, demonstrating safety improvements

Statistic 16

54% of maritime companies provide financial incentives and bonuses linked to successful completion of training programs, boosting participation

Statistic 17

55% of maritime firms report that ongoing training significantly improves compliance with international safety standards, decreasing legal and operational risks

Statistic 18

68% of maritime companies have increased their investment in employee training over the past three years

Statistic 19

45% of maritime industry employers report skill gaps among their workforce

Statistic 20

The global maritime workforce is expected to grow by 10% in the next five years due to upskilling initiatives

Statistic 21

52% of maritime companies are implementing digital literacy programs for their employees

Statistic 22

The maritime industry spent approximately $2.5 billion on upskilling initiatives in 2022

Statistic 23

72% of maritime companies plan to increase their investment in reskilling their workforce by 2025

Statistic 24

55% of maritime clients prioritize technology transfer and skill development when choosing partners

Statistic 25

40% of maritime workers require retraining due to automation and digital transformation

Statistic 26

The maritime industry faces a projected skills shortage of 24% in the next decade, driven by aging workforce and insufficient upskilling programs

Statistic 27

60% of maritime companies have partnered with technical schools to develop specialized training programs

Statistic 28

Maritime training market size is expected to reach $3.8 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%

Statistic 29

Remote training and virtual simulators are now used by 65% of maritime operators to enhance crew skills

Statistic 30

Increases in autonomous shipping have led to a 30% rise in demand for specialized technical training

Statistic 31

48% of maritime employees have undergone reskilling programs focused on cyber security, reflecting the industry’s digital shift

Statistic 32

The maritime industry’s adoption of IoT and AI has doubled the need for new technical competencies

Statistic 33

80% of maritime companies intend to implement lifelong learning programs for their staff by 2024

Statistic 34

The average time spent on upskilling per employee in the maritime sector increased by 20% from 2019 to 2022

Statistic 35

Maritime industry apprenticeships have increased by 25% in the last three years, reflecting a focus on skills transfer

Statistic 36

65% of maritime companies cite workforce upskilling as a key factor in digital transformation success

Statistic 37

The average age of maritime workers is 49, emphasizing urgent reskilling needs among an aging workforce

Statistic 38

83% of maritime training programs now incorporate e-learning modules, showing a shift towards flexible education formats

Statistic 39

42% of maritime companies plan to increase their budgets for crew education and training in 2024, aiming to tackle skills shortages

Statistic 40

54% of maritime firms have integrated AI-driven training platforms to personalize learning experiences

Statistic 41

46% of maritime employees reported an increase in productivity after completing reskilling programs, according to industry surveys

Statistic 42

Marine engineering skills are among the top focus areas for upskilling initiatives, with 60% of companies prioritizing this area

Statistic 43

The maritime industry’s investment in reskilling initiatives increased by 30% during the pandemic period, highlighting a resilient focus on workforce development

Statistic 44

55% of maritime companies have implemented mentorship programs to facilitate skill transfer among senior and junior staff

Statistic 45

75% of maritime workers have expressed interest in digital skills training to keep pace with industry innovations

Statistic 46

The adoption of virtual reality (VR) simulators for training has grown by 50% in the past two years, demonstrating technological advancement in upskilling tools

Statistic 47

50% of maritime companies report difficulty in retaining digitally skilled employees, highlighting a need for ongoing upskilling and career development programs

Statistic 48

The number of maritime training centers offering specialized cyber security courses increased by 35% in 2023, reflecting growing industry concerns

Statistic 49

65% of maritime executives see upskilling and reskilling as critical to maintaining competitive advantage amid industry transformation

Statistic 50

The average return on investment (ROI) for maritime upskilling programs is estimated at 150% within two years, based on improved safety, efficiency, and retention

Statistic 51

80% of maritime companies are exploring or implementing AI-based recruitment and training solutions to streamline workforce management

Statistic 52

53% of maritime organizations have seen improved safety records after implementing comprehensive upskilling programs, indicating a direct benefit

Statistic 53

40% of maritime firms report that their formal skill development programs contributed to significant cost savings in crew turnover

Statistic 54

The sector has seen a 25% increase in online maritime courses during the past year, driven by digital transformation and pandemic adaptations

Statistic 55

The average investment in digital skill training per employee increased from $500 to $900 between 2021 and 2023, reflecting rising digital competency requirements

Statistic 56

62% of maritime companies offer some form of formal certification or credentialing for upskilling, which improves employability and standards adherence

Statistic 57

The deployment of automated systems on ships has increased by 45% in the last five years, creating demand for new technical skills

Statistic 58

57% of maritime training programs now include modules on environmental compliance and sustainable practices, reflecting industry priorities

Statistic 59

37% of maritime companies report that virtual and augmented reality training reduces training costs by up to 30%, compared to traditional methods

Statistic 60

The share of maritime companies with dedicated internal training departments increased to 65% in 2023, highlighting a shift towards in-house workforce development

Statistic 61

70% of maritime professionals believe that reskilling is essential to adapt to new industry technologies, according to recent surveys

Statistic 62

The percentage of maritime companies conducting regular skills audits increased from 38% in 2019 to 65% in 2023, emphasizing ongoing skill assessment

Statistic 63

Automated navigation and decision-making systems are projected to create a 40% increase in the demand for AI and robotics specialists in maritime

Statistic 64

Maritime industry leaders prioritize upskilling in new environmental regulations, with 78% planning to update training programs accordingly by 2025

Statistic 65

65% of maritime employees have participated in cross-training to improve versatility across different shipboard roles, enhancing workforce flexibility

Statistic 66

80% of maritime companies view digital literacy as critical for safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, underlining its importance

Statistic 67

The global digital transformation in maritime industry workforces is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030, indicating sustained momentum

Statistic 68

50% of maritime firms have reported difficulties in sourcing adequately trained digital talent, pointing to skills shortages

Statistic 69

60% of maritime organizations have introduced mentorship and leadership development programs to cultivate future industry leaders

Statistic 70

The maritime industry’s annual expenditure on continuous professional development (CPD) has increased by 22% over the last four years, reflecting rising commitment

Statistic 71

43% of maritime companies now use AI analytics to identify and address skill gaps proactively, improving workforce planning

Statistic 72

The maritime industry has seen a 35% increase in online certification programs over the past two years, facilitating wider access to skills development

Statistic 73

70% of new maritime recruits undergo onboarding programs emphasizing safety and operational training, accentuating the importance of initial upskilling

Statistic 74

The adoption of digital twins in maritime asset management is expected to increase industry-wide technical skills demand by 25% within five years

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Key Highlights

68% of maritime companies have increased their investment in employee training over the past three years
45% of maritime industry employers report skill gaps among their workforce
The global maritime workforce is expected to grow by 10% in the next five years due to upskilling initiatives
52% of maritime companies are implementing digital literacy programs for their employees
Only 35% of maritime workers feel confident in their digital skills, highlighting the need for reskilling
The maritime industry spent approximately $2.5 billion on upskilling initiatives in 2022
72% of maritime companies plan to increase their investment in reskilling their workforce by 2025
55% of maritime clients prioritize technology transfer and skill development when choosing partners
40% of maritime workers require retraining due to automation and digital transformation
The maritime industry faces a projected skills shortage of 24% in the next decade, driven by aging workforce and insufficient upskilling programs
60% of maritime companies have partnered with technical schools to develop specialized training programs
Maritime training market size is expected to reach $3.8 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%
70% of maritime workers agree that upskilling opportunities improve job satisfaction and retention

With 68% of maritime companies increasing their investment in employee training over the past three years and a projected 10% growth in the global maritime workforce driven by upskilling efforts, the industry is navigating a critical crossroads where reskilling and digital literacy are vital to securing its future amidst ongoing technological transformation.

Digital Transformation and Technology Adoption

The global digitalization market in maritime training is projected to grow at a CAGR of 8% from 2023 to 2030, indicating sustained investment
The use of blockchain technology in training certification is being trialed by 22% of maritime companies to improve credentialing processes
More than 80% of maritime training providers now incorporate simulation-based learning, reflecting technology-driven educational methods

Digital Transformation and Technology Adoption Interpretation

As the maritime industry charts a course toward an 8% annual growth in digital training, with blockchain trials and over 80% embracing simulation-based learning, it’s clear that navigating the future requires both crew competency and a tech-savvy compass.

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives

Women’s participation in maritime skill development programs increased by 20% over the last five years, promoting diversity and inclusion
The number of women enrolled in maritime technical courses increased by 30% over the last three years, supporting gender diversity initiatives
66% of maritime companies invest in multicultural and multilingual training to support international crew composition, promoting inclusivity

Diversity and Inclusion Initiatives Interpretation

As women’s participation in maritime training surges and companies embrace multilingual diversity, the industry is charting a course toward a more inclusive and equitable horizon—proof that progress on deck is sailing smoothly into the future.

Workforce Confidence and Training

Only 35% of maritime workers feel confident in their digital skills, highlighting the need for reskilling
70% of maritime workers agree that upskilling opportunities improve job satisfaction and retention
58% of maritime employers believe that continuous education is essential for compliance with evolving international regulations
Fleet operators investing in crew upskilling saw a 15% reduction in operational errors
Maritime safety incidents decreased by 18% in companies with comprehensive upskilling programs, indicating improved safety culture
38% of maritime companies reported challenges in developing effective remote training programs, citing technological barriers and engagement issues
58% of maritime employees feel that ongoing education opportunities are essential for career advancement, according to industry surveys
48% of maritime companies actively evaluate the effectiveness of their training programs through measurable KPIs, emphasizing data-driven development
Maritime industry’s upskilling initiatives have contributed to a 23% reduction in workplace accidents over the past five years, demonstrating safety improvements
54% of maritime companies provide financial incentives and bonuses linked to successful completion of training programs, boosting participation
55% of maritime firms report that ongoing training significantly improves compliance with international safety standards, decreasing legal and operational risks

Workforce Confidence and Training Interpretation

Despite only 35% of maritime workers feeling confident in their digital skills, widespread industry recognition that upskilling and reskilling not only boost safety—reducing accidents by 23%—and compliance but also enhance job satisfaction and career prospects underscores that investing in continuous education is truly the ship's anchor for future-ready maritime operations.

Workforce Development and Skills

68% of maritime companies have increased their investment in employee training over the past three years
45% of maritime industry employers report skill gaps among their workforce
The global maritime workforce is expected to grow by 10% in the next five years due to upskilling initiatives
52% of maritime companies are implementing digital literacy programs for their employees
The maritime industry spent approximately $2.5 billion on upskilling initiatives in 2022
72% of maritime companies plan to increase their investment in reskilling their workforce by 2025
55% of maritime clients prioritize technology transfer and skill development when choosing partners
40% of maritime workers require retraining due to automation and digital transformation
The maritime industry faces a projected skills shortage of 24% in the next decade, driven by aging workforce and insufficient upskilling programs
60% of maritime companies have partnered with technical schools to develop specialized training programs
Maritime training market size is expected to reach $3.8 billion by 2025, with a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6%
Remote training and virtual simulators are now used by 65% of maritime operators to enhance crew skills
Increases in autonomous shipping have led to a 30% rise in demand for specialized technical training
48% of maritime employees have undergone reskilling programs focused on cyber security, reflecting the industry’s digital shift
The maritime industry’s adoption of IoT and AI has doubled the need for new technical competencies
80% of maritime companies intend to implement lifelong learning programs for their staff by 2024
The average time spent on upskilling per employee in the maritime sector increased by 20% from 2019 to 2022
Maritime industry apprenticeships have increased by 25% in the last three years, reflecting a focus on skills transfer
65% of maritime companies cite workforce upskilling as a key factor in digital transformation success
The average age of maritime workers is 49, emphasizing urgent reskilling needs among an aging workforce
83% of maritime training programs now incorporate e-learning modules, showing a shift towards flexible education formats
42% of maritime companies plan to increase their budgets for crew education and training in 2024, aiming to tackle skills shortages
54% of maritime firms have integrated AI-driven training platforms to personalize learning experiences
46% of maritime employees reported an increase in productivity after completing reskilling programs, according to industry surveys
Marine engineering skills are among the top focus areas for upskilling initiatives, with 60% of companies prioritizing this area
The maritime industry’s investment in reskilling initiatives increased by 30% during the pandemic period, highlighting a resilient focus on workforce development
55% of maritime companies have implemented mentorship programs to facilitate skill transfer among senior and junior staff
75% of maritime workers have expressed interest in digital skills training to keep pace with industry innovations
The adoption of virtual reality (VR) simulators for training has grown by 50% in the past two years, demonstrating technological advancement in upskilling tools
50% of maritime companies report difficulty in retaining digitally skilled employees, highlighting a need for ongoing upskilling and career development programs
The number of maritime training centers offering specialized cyber security courses increased by 35% in 2023, reflecting growing industry concerns
65% of maritime executives see upskilling and reskilling as critical to maintaining competitive advantage amid industry transformation
The average return on investment (ROI) for maritime upskilling programs is estimated at 150% within two years, based on improved safety, efficiency, and retention
80% of maritime companies are exploring or implementing AI-based recruitment and training solutions to streamline workforce management
53% of maritime organizations have seen improved safety records after implementing comprehensive upskilling programs, indicating a direct benefit
40% of maritime firms report that their formal skill development programs contributed to significant cost savings in crew turnover
The sector has seen a 25% increase in online maritime courses during the past year, driven by digital transformation and pandemic adaptations
The average investment in digital skill training per employee increased from $500 to $900 between 2021 and 2023, reflecting rising digital competency requirements
62% of maritime companies offer some form of formal certification or credentialing for upskilling, which improves employability and standards adherence
The deployment of automated systems on ships has increased by 45% in the last five years, creating demand for new technical skills
57% of maritime training programs now include modules on environmental compliance and sustainable practices, reflecting industry priorities
37% of maritime companies report that virtual and augmented reality training reduces training costs by up to 30%, compared to traditional methods
The share of maritime companies with dedicated internal training departments increased to 65% in 2023, highlighting a shift towards in-house workforce development
70% of maritime professionals believe that reskilling is essential to adapt to new industry technologies, according to recent surveys
The percentage of maritime companies conducting regular skills audits increased from 38% in 2019 to 65% in 2023, emphasizing ongoing skill assessment
Automated navigation and decision-making systems are projected to create a 40% increase in the demand for AI and robotics specialists in maritime
Maritime industry leaders prioritize upskilling in new environmental regulations, with 78% planning to update training programs accordingly by 2025
65% of maritime employees have participated in cross-training to improve versatility across different shipboard roles, enhancing workforce flexibility
80% of maritime companies view digital literacy as critical for safety, operational efficiency, and regulatory compliance, underlining its importance
The global digital transformation in maritime industry workforces is projected to grow at a CAGR of 9% through 2030, indicating sustained momentum
50% of maritime firms have reported difficulties in sourcing adequately trained digital talent, pointing to skills shortages
60% of maritime organizations have introduced mentorship and leadership development programs to cultivate future industry leaders
The maritime industry’s annual expenditure on continuous professional development (CPD) has increased by 22% over the last four years, reflecting rising commitment
43% of maritime companies now use AI analytics to identify and address skill gaps proactively, improving workforce planning
The maritime industry has seen a 35% increase in online certification programs over the past two years, facilitating wider access to skills development
70% of new maritime recruits undergo onboarding programs emphasizing safety and operational training, accentuating the importance of initial upskilling
The adoption of digital twins in maritime asset management is expected to increase industry-wide technical skills demand by 25% within five years

Workforce Development and Skills Interpretation

As the maritime industry charts a course toward digital dominance and sustainability, a commanding 68% boost in training investments over three years reveals a fleet of companies betting on upskilling to bridge a 24% skills gap, as the sector navigates the rough seas of automation, environmental regulations, and workforce aging—making lifelong learning not just a buoyant trend but a vital compass for staying afloat in the digital age.