Workplace Instructor Training Day Strengthened Guidance Skills and Future Cooperation
As a result of the LeaderSHIP project, the number of apprenticeship students at Meyer Turku shipyard is increasing significantly, which creates a growing need for new workplace instructors and assessors.
As part of the project, Mika Haapalainen from Turku Vocational Institute / Meyer Turku Shipbuilding School organized workplace instructor training on August 29, 2025, and trained Meyer Turku employees as workplace instructors using tailored training materials.
The training focused on the content of qualification units, legislation related to students, and the importance of giving feedback. Each instructor was assigned the qualification units that their students will complete. The aim was to strengthen the instructors’ competence and make it easier to guide students. The training also clarified the role of supervisors in assessment and helped instructors better recognize their responsibilities.
Content of the Training Day
- workplace learning, guidance, and assessment
- qualification unit content, structure of the qualification, and changes in qualification requirements
- legislation and responsibilities related to students
- notifications to the Regional State Administrative Agency
- notifications required at the shipyard
- giving proper feedback to students
- importance of feedback from the workplace
- demonstration of personal competence targeted to qualification units and practices
The participants gave very positive feedback about the training. According to the feedback, the training was organized in a very professional manner, and the content was considered diverse and engaging. The event was also important for strengthening team spirit within the workplace, as it provided an opportunity to get to know others working with the shipyard apprenticeship model.
The shipyard’s own teachers were also present at the training day, which is important for future cooperation.
LeaderSHIP4Skills project’s second Training Workshop
Turku University of Applied Sciences hosted the LeaderSHIP4Skills project’s second Training Workshop on curricula design and training on 1 and 2 October 2025 in Turku. The workshop programme included focused discussions and working sessions related to Work Packages 3: Curricula design and WP 4: training Provision. Over the course of two intensive and collaborative days, we achieved substantial progress—setting a strong foundation for the forthcoming pilot courses and advancing the validation process of the project’s syllabi. We have drafted over 30 syllabi mainly on urgent skills than emerging skills curricula. Collecting information in emerging skills will be needed. As we mark the halfway point of this four-year initiative, the next phase promises to bring even greater engagement from industry stakeholders, both within the project consortium and across the wider shipbuilding sector.
At present, most curricula are developed at local or national levels, which limits opportunities for broader collaboration and knowledge sharing across Europe. To address this, there is a growing need to design and implement Europe-wide curricula that promote harmonized learning standards and foster cross-border cooperation. One promising approach could involve the development of massive open online courses (MOOCs) created and delivered collaboratively by multiple partners. Such initiatives would not only provide accessible, high-quality learning resources to a diverse audience but also strengthen partnerships among educational institutions, industry stakeholders, and research organizations.
Besides the intense workshop, participants had the opportunity to visit several laboratories located on the Turku University of Applied Sciences campus, gaining valuable insights into the educational and technological infrastructure supporting maritime and engineering studies. A notable visit was made to Quad Tech Turku, a multidisciplinary learning environment. Furthermore, the partners were given a brief tour of Turku UAS’ Engine and Powertrain Laboratory offering a glimpse into the advanced research and development activities taking place within the institution. The energy and collaboration in Turku were inspiring—and a clear sign that together, we’re building the skills that will drive Europe’s shipbuilding industry forward.
Naval Group
As an international naval defense player, Naval Group is partnering with countries seeking to maintain and control their maritime sovereignty.
Throughout the entire life cycle of vessels, Naval Group develops innovative solutions to meet its customers’ requirements. Naval Group designs, produces, equips, integrates, supports and upgrades submarines and surface ships, as well as their systems and equipment, right up to the final phases of deconstruction and dismantling.
Naval Group’s unique know-how in autonomous systems, underwater weapons and drones place the company as a leader in the sector. As a high-tech company, it draws on its outstanding expertise, unique design, production resources and ability to establish strategic partnerships. It also provides shipyard and naval base services.
Naval Group has a long experience in training people and customer. The company designs a high range of training programs for Navies and its employees.
Ever mindful of the issues concerning corporate social responsibility (CSR), Naval Group signs the UN Global Compact. Located on five continents, the group generates global revenue of 4.355 billion euros and employs 16,722 people around the world.
Strengthening Norway’s Maritime Workforce: A Collaborative Path Forward
Norway’s maritime industry continues to evolve, driven by innovation in shipbuilding, digitalization, and sustainability. As the sector grows, so does the need for skilled professionals—engineers, technicians, and administrative staff—who can support this transformation.
Across Møre og Romsdal county, maritime companies and business associations are working together to address workforce needs. Initiatives include closer ties with educational institutions, expanded apprenticeship programs, and outreach to student communities in major cities. These efforts are already generating positive attention and engagement.
However, long-term workforce development calls for broader strategies. Traditional recruitment methods—such as job fairs and school campaigns—are valuable, but stakeholders are now exploring complementary approaches that align with wider societal goals.
Inclusive Recruitment: A Win-Win Approach
One promising direction involves connecting industry recruitment with social inclusion. Inspired by the LeaderSHIP program and its research, MAFOSS – together with NAV (Norwegian Labour and Welfare Administration), Møre and Romsdal County Council and Furene AS - explores ways to reach out to individuals facing barriers to employment and to create meaningful opportunities for young adults who are currently outside education and employment. In Møre og Romsdal alone, an estimated 3,000–4,000 individuals aged 18–29 fall into this category. Nationally, the number is closer to 100,000. Many of these individuals are motivated and eager to contribute but face structural challenges that limit access to training and employment. By offering tailored support and inclusive pathways, the maritime industry can tap into a valuable pool of talent while contributing to social cohesion.
Looking Ahead
The maritime sector’s commitment to long-term workforce development is not just about filling vacancies—it’s about building resilient communities and sustainable careers. By embracing inclusive strategies and fostering collaboration across public and private sectors, Norway’s maritime industry is well-positioned to thrive in the years ahead.
(picture: Jan Thormodsaeter, Maritime Association for Southern Sunnmøre, and Kristian Severeide, Møre and Romsdal County)