Three young Antiguans and Barbudans have embarked on a six-week journey into the maritime industry after being selected for the second cohort of the Maritime Apprenticeship Program, a collaborative initiative aimed at preparing the next generation of shipping and logistics professionals.

The programme, a partnership between Tropical Shipping, the Port Management Association of the Caribbean (PMAC), and the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority, officially welcomed its newest apprentices as it continues its mission of bridging the gap between education and industry through practical, hands-on training.

Dezante Maile

Selected through a competitive application process, this year’s apprentices are Dezante Maile, Myah Ward and Shekinah Hector. Over the next six weeks, they will gain valuable workplace experience while being mentored by seasoned maritime professionals.

The apprentices will rotate through several departments at Tropical Shipping, including customer service, sales, accounting, documentation, operations, vessel activities and logistics. They will also spend time at the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority and engage with other industry partners to develop a comprehensive understanding of how the maritime supply chain supports trade and economic development across the Caribbean.

Myah Ward

The Maritime Apprenticeship Program was first launched in 2025 to introduce young people to careers in shipping, port operations, logistics and the wider maritime sector. Following the success of its inaugural year, organizers say the second cohort has been designed to provide an even richer learning experience while encouraging participants to pursue long-term careers in the industry.

Shekinah Hector

The initiative reflects Tropical Shipping’s longstanding investment in the Caribbean and aligns with PMAC’s regional focus on workforce development. It also demonstrates the Antigua and Barbuda Port Authority’s commitment to strengthening the country’s maritime sector by investing in the development of future professionals.

Organizers congratulated Maile, Ward and Hector on their selection and expressed confidence that the programme will equip them with the knowledge, practical skills and industry exposure needed to build successful careers in the maritime field.