Maritime: A Purposeful Industry at the Intersection of World Trade and the Global Supply Chain

By Ms. Tan Beng Tee, Executive Director, Singapore Maritime Foundation

and Ms. Jamie-Claire Gwee, Year 1 Maritime Studies Undergraduate, NTU

Dear Students,

How much do you know about the maritime industry?

In a world where you can buy virtually anything online, we don’t often stop to consider the abundance of goods we have access to, from the apparel we wear to the food we eat to the medication that make us well when we fall ill, and how seamlessly these products arrive on our shores. It is a little-known fact that over 80% of international trade is moved by sea.

Singapore is a key node that connects this vital shipping network and global supply chain. The global maritime industry does not only keep the world moving- but it is also progressing rapidly in terms of digital innovation and sustainability, with a goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2050. As a leading international maritime centre and global hub port, Maritime Singapore’s transformation is made possible by an extensive and diverse ecosystem across shipping, ports and professional services that drive the industry’s growth. Above all, this exciting industry is fuelled by a skilled, future-ready workforce.

The Singapore Maritime Foundation (SMF) has been nurturing a pipeline of talent through the MaritimeONE Scholarship. Sponsored by leading maritime companies, the scholarship attracts tertiary students who share a passion for a career in maritime. Since its inception in 2007, 584 MaritimeONE Scholarships with a sponsorship value of $16 million have been awarded. The scholarship is open to students from any discipline and across all years.

If a career in a purposeful industry at the cross-roads of world trade interests you, hear from Jamie-Claire Gwee, a MaritimeONE scholar, who is pursuing a degree in Maritime Studies with a second major in Sustainability. Here’s what she has to share about her journey of discovery:

Jamie-Claire Gwee
Year 1, Maritime Studies Undergraduate with a Second Major in Sustainability
Nanyang Technological University

I strongly believe in lifelong learning and exploring diverse subject fields that broaden my knowledge and competencies. Upon completing my A-levels, I first ventured into accounting as a finance assistant, where I honed skills in Microsoft Excel and SAP software.

However, I soon developed a keener interest in pursuing a business-related course. During this time, I discovered how Maritime Singapore plays a pivotal role in international trade, functioning as a leading global hub port and the busiest transshipment hub worldwide. This ignited my passion for maritime. I wanted to be part of this dynamic industry that both sustains our way of life and contributes significantly to our nation’s economy.

Consequently, I chose a focused specialisation in Maritime Studies over a general Business degree. The rigorous curriculum, encompassing shipping economics, logistics and law, appealed to my desire for an interdisciplinary education. Additionally, I took up a second major in sustainability, with the aspiration to play a crucial role in driving the green transition and achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

I have come to realise how deeply entwined maritime and sustainability are, especially in light of the growing emphasis on green shipping and eco-friendly port operations. My studies have given me a deeper understanding of how global trade operates, the intricacies of shipping and delivery terms, as well as carbon auditing, all of which have honed my analytical skills.

To better chart my course in maritime, I applied for the MaritimeONE scholarship as I knew that the programme would offer me an accelerated pathway into the industry through practical industry insights, internships and immersive learning journeys.

Now a recipient of the Larine Tankers—MaritimeONE scholarship, I have had fulfilling experiences networking with industry professionals and other scholars, expanding my knowledge and connections. I am confident that my personal attributes, skills, and enthusiasm for continuous learning will empower me to find my footing and thrive in this vibrant and purposeful industry.

Jamie-Claire Gwee receives the Larine Tankers—MaritimeONE scholarship award
from SMF Chairman Mr Hor Weng Yew

Are you ready to find out more about the MaritimeONE Scholarship? Click here to take your first step today.

Aside from applying for the MaritimeONE Scholarship, consider participating in the following SMF initiatives and gain a head start in the industry:

1. Create your account and submit your CV to the MaritimeONE Career Portal, a one-stop resource to apply for your ideal role and gain visibility amongst prospective employers.

2. Join the MaritimeONE Connect Telegram channel to keep abreast of the latest industry happenings and maritime career opportunities.

3. Own Your Future today by taking the Career Purpose Quiz, and find out which maritime career suits your personality!