The city of Barcelona is experiencing remarkable growth in its blue economy, which currently accounts for 4.3% of local employment, equivalent to 51,238 jobs. This sector, encompassing activities related to the sea, has become one of the region's most promising economic pillars. The new Blue Economy Strategy aims not only to promote job creation but also to attract young people and professionals transitioning into this field.
New training for an expanding sector
In order to meet the growing labour demand, training programmes have been implemented to inspire maritime vocations among young people and facilitate professional transitions. Despite being a traditionally male-dominated sector, where 64% of workers are men, there is a significant increase in female participation.
Three stories exemplify this transformation: Pilar Corral, Jaume Alcañiz, and Nil Pera have found new career paths thanks to the maritime ecosystem in Barcelona. Pilar, at 51 years old, left her career as a pastry chef to become a sailor at Port Olímpic after completing a specialised course. Her experience reflects how it is possible to reinvent oneself professionally even after years in the same occupation.
Pilar comments: "I used to be locked between four walls and didn’t see the light of day. Now I plan to keep progressing here."
Meanwhile, Jaume Alcañiz decided to change his path from graphic designer to a career in the maritime sector. At 49, he found a temporary job opportunity that allowed him to delve into this new world. He has continued his training to obtain official nautical certifications and is now looking to solidify his career in port operations.
Jaume states: "At this age, experience is an important asset. It’s a sector where there is little ageism."
Nil Pera represents the new generation interested in maritime professions. At just 26 years old and after completing his studies in naval engineering, he works as a project manager at MB92, one of the most important shipyards in the Mediterranean. The recent hosting of the America’s Cup has generated a surge in job opportunities within the naval sector.
Nil highlights: "Last year, new job opportunities arose thanks to events like the America’s Cup."
As Barcelona continues to develop its blue economy, it is expected that even more initiatives will emerge to attract young talent and facilitate the necessary training to meet the demands of the maritime labour market. Sustainability also plays a crucial role; Nil mentions that although there is still a long way to go to decarbonise the naval sector, sustainable alternatives are already being explored.
As this sea-focused economic strategy progresses, Barcelona is positioning itself as an international benchmark not only for its coastal beauty but also for the innovative job opportunities it offers. The stories of Pilar, Jaume, and Nil are just examples of the transformative potential this emerging sector has on the professional and personal lives of those who decide to embark on it.
In the long term, these initiatives are expected to contribute significantly to local economic development while promoting greater inclusion and diversity within the maritime labour field.
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