Twenty apprentices from the Grand Bahamas Shipyard have traveled over 4,000 miles to The Engineering College in Birkenhead, England, to enhance their skills in marine engineering. This initiative, in partnership with Cammell Laird, aims to prepare them for work on cruise ships and tankers that frequent the Bahamas. Kevin Cairns, the college’s commercial services manager, highlighted the specialized training the apprentices are receiving, focusing on mechanical and marine engineering skills essential for their home country’s shipyard.
The apprentices have undergone an intensive 18-week training program, covering four different trades. This experience is designed to equip them with the necessary competencies to thrive in the Bahamian shipyard environment. Krispin Bartlett and Michael Clarke, two of the apprentices, expressed their gratitude for the instructors who have shared invaluable knowledge, describing the experience as transformative.
Clarke remarked on the significant lifestyle change and the advanced training compared to what they had previously encountered in the Bahamas. He feels more qualified to tackle job requirements back home. This marks the second year that the college has welcomed apprentices from the Grand Bahamas Shipyard, with positive feedback indicating that they are engaged and well-prepared for their future roles.
