Jennifer Harrison

Jennifer Harrison’s career in the maritime industry spans nearly 30 years, with more than two decades spent working with ABS. She served in various capacities in software consulting, business development, marketing, public relations and training. During her time in the learning technology development space, Jennifer spearheaded ABS’ first learning management system and in-house development team. Since 2022, Jennifer has overseen the technical training development function for employees, including delivering programs at ABS Academies in Houston, Shanghai, Singapore, Busan, Doha and Athens. In October 2024, Jennifer took on the role of Vice President of Training Solutions, focusing on developing a training business line to assist ABS clients in upskilling their shoreside and shipboard personnel to comply with new technologies and regulations. Before her tenure at ABS, Jennifer was a personnel manager for an FPSO management company, and crew purser with Royal Caribbean Cruise Lines. Her hands-on experience on cruise ships fueled her passion for the maritime industry and her love for cruising remains strong. Jennifer holds a Bachelor of Arts in Organizational Psychology from the University of Houston, a Master of Human Resource Development from Indiana State University and a Master of Business Administration from Texas A&M University.

Session Overview

Tuesday, 4 November

16:50

Maritime & Logistics Conference Room A 16:50 - 17:30

Investing in talent to deliver the maritime ecosystem of the future

In the face of rapidly advancing technologies, market disruptions and evolving business models, the ability to develop critical skills and maintain a capable workforce continues to be a key driver of success in the maritime sector. In addition to attracting and retaining next-generation talent, industry leaders must invest in training, upskilling and decarbonisation-related initiatives if they are to succeed in building the sustainable maritime ecosystem of the future. As automation, digitalisation and alternative fuels such as hydrogen gain traction, demand is rising for new capabilities in areas like cybersecurity, data analytics and environmental engineering. So too is competition across the global energy ecosystem. Coordinated investments in talent development, flexible working and purpose-driven employment will play an essential role in positioning maritime as a career path of choice. The sector must also take action to avoid a potential vacuum in knowledge transfer and leadership succession. Stronger industry-academic partnerships can spark early interest in maritime careers through internships, apprenticeships and hands-on learning. At the same time, collaboration between governments, maritime organisations and private entities will be critical in establishing standardised training programmes that address talent shortages. Ultimately, a coordinated, inclusive and forward-looking approach can help build the skilled and diverse workforce needed to power a resilient, high-growth maritime future.

Attendee insights:

Learn how investments in training can help the maritime and logistics industry attract and retain talent, while enabling employees to adapt to automation, digitalisation and low carbon technologies.