A year has swiftly passed since the Singapore office last hosted the maritime trainees from the Norwegian Shipowners’ Association (NAS) Maritime Trainees Program, facilitated by Menon Economics.
Following our successful deep dive into Odfjell perspectives on decarbonization during the previous year, we received positive feedback from the participants, prompting their desire for our involvement once more. This year, with the agenda and topics left to our discretion, we embraced the challenge to ignite interest and inspire the new cohort of 2024.
On March 20, we welcomed 15 Norway-based trainees consisting of engineers, lawyers, and economists from various maritime companies such as DNV, Hoegh LNG, Nordisk, Wikborgh Rein, Odfjell Drilling, and Fred Olsen Windcarrier.
General Manager Zaidi Mohd delivered the welcome speech and did the safety briefing, underscoring Odfjell's deeply ingrained commitment to 'Safety First'. Meanwhile, Thomas Lund, VP Asia, volunteered to lead the presentation for the 2024 trainees.
Our IT Manager, Addison Sim, joined in, offering valuable insights into Odfjell's ongoing digital transformation journey — the current buzz.
During the 90-minute session, we shared our initiatives concerning the Odfjell fleet, focusing on decarbonization efforts, fleet renewal initiatives, and our perspectives on the chemical shipping market today.
We highlighted our pioneering efforts on energy-saving devices and the focus on our advancements in novel technology like the suction sails and air lubrication. These sparked curiosity and prompted numerous questions even on the technical aspect.
It became clear that managing specialized chemical tankers is more intricate than managing standard containers or bulkers. We provided insights on today’s chemical shipping market dynamics, showcasing our strong foothold in the sector.
Addison bolstered the Odfjell brand with our Digitalization Roadmap and cross-functional solutions via digital applications. Stressing the critical importance of cybersecurity, we shared best practices reinforcing our commitments to innovation and safety.
The session wrapped up with a social gathering in the pantry where conversations over coffee and local tarts continued, providing an opportunity for the participants to connect.
Ship Broker Kjell Christensen fielded questions from curious trainees about his experiences working in Singapore. Further inquiries were made about our work culture and strength, which indicated a level of respect for the strides Odfjell has made thus far.
One trainee commented: “We visited the port and some companies prior coming here. It has been a fresh, interesting, and educating presentation that you guys tell about your company.”
Before departing, Maren Basso, who leads the Menon Maritime team and is the project manager of this program, expressed her thanks, saying:
“Another amazing presentation, and in 2025 we want Odfjell to be present for our program again.”
Are we going to accept the challenge again? We left the response pending as we returned a satisfactory smile.
