Maritime Cook Islands Promotes Careers on Day of the Seafarer

Maritime Cook Islands, an international ship registry, commemorated Day of the Seafarer with the first Cook Islands Maritime careers expo.

The ship registry inititated and organised the event together with several Cook Islands government bodies including Cook Islands Ministry of Education, Ports Authority and Cook Islands Tourism.

The event, held at Avatiu Wharf, allowed attendees to explore a spectrum of career opportunities that are available within the maritime industry, both locally and internationally.

Attended by over 900 students from Rarotonga and 23 flown in from Aitatuki, the students gained insights on the qualifications and skills requirements, as well as the career progression for each respective maritime role.

Exhibitors at the expo included Cook Islands Ports Authority, Ministry of Marine Resources,  Cook Islands Maritime Surveillance, Seabed Minerals Authority, Marae Moana, National Environment Service, Cook Islands Yacht Squadron, Cook Islands Women in Maritime, Cook Islands Ship Owners Association, Cook Islands Voyaging Society, Canoeing Association, Sailing Cook Islands, Cook Islands Chef Association, Cook Islands Tertiary Training Institute, Rongohiva, Bluewater Adventures Fishing Charters, Taio Shipping (Maungaroa II), Blue Sky, Pacific Divers and New Zealand Navy.

MCI CEO Glenn Armstrong said today: “This careers expo is an extension of our previous efforts in engaging with the youth – to further harness their interest and knowledge of the shipping industry.”

He added: “With the involvement of other government departments, we were able to deliver a more holistic programme for the students, as well as for the general public. More than just promoting careers in maritime, we chose the Day of the Seafarer to at the same time acknowledge and recognise the contributions of seafarers worldwide.”