Students Set Sail on Career Opportunities at Annual Marine Careers Evening Aboard the Dixie Queen

An Evening of Inspiration and Industry Insight Afloat on the Thames

The Thames shimmered under city lights last night as the historic Dixie Queen paddle steamer played host to the annual SECG / Thames Skills Academy Marine Careers Event – an inspiring evening that connected budding maritime professionals with the heart of the industry.

Aboard the Dixie Queen, 130 students from across the region gathered to explore pathways into marine careers. Among them were 15 enthusiastic Level 2 Marine Studies students from our college, CVs in hand and ready to chart their course in the sector. They weren’t alone; they were joined by our own maritime apprentices from Levels 1 to 4, who shared their real-world experiences on a student-led panel.

“The apprentices were incredible,” said Simon Lofting, Maritime Programme Lead, who also presented on the college’s range of maritime courses and the SeaRegs-backed Deck Crew Apprenticeships. “They gave honest, valuable advice that you can’t get from a textbook – it really brought the whole evening to life.”

The event featured presentations from major employers along the Thames, offering students a rare chance to hear directly from those hiring in the sector. Attendees then had the opportunity to mingle with representatives, make connections, and hand out CVs – a crucial step for those keen to break into this dynamic industry.

It was a night filled with ambition, inspiration, and opportunity – all set against the unique backdrop of London’s iconic river.

For more information about our Marine Engineering courses visit: www. www.southessex.ac.uk/course/marine-engineering-foundation-level-2-diploma