The challenge

In a Mediterranean that hosts the heart of the world’s boating industry, the EJOB project aimed to train new on-board professionals-chefs, stewards, machinists-capable of competing internationally. The context? An expanding supply chain, but with an underrepresentation of Italian and French profiles, still dominated by Anglo-Saxon crews.

The partnership

Three key partners: the Province of Lucca (lead partner), ISYL Foundation and Lycée Paul Augier of Nice. An alliance between public entities and training institutions of excellence, for joint action on youth employability in the trades of the sea.

Difficulties overcome

The pandemic cancelled the physical mobility of students, forcing a complete reprogramming. Together with partners, we defined a “reconversion plan” approved by the Managing Authority, transforming exchanges into structured digital educational pathways and an innovative educational model based on cross-border DAD.

The results of cooperation

Eight bilingual training modules were developed, focusing on technical, language and interpersonal skills for work on board. The program also included workshops with professional chefs and stewards, mock interviews, CVs in maritime format, and participation in the Antibes Employment Forum.

What we learned

EJOB proved thatintegration between education and the marine industry is the key to training professionals ready to get on board. For ISYL, and for me who oversaw its entire design and operational implementation, it was an opportunity to build a solid bridge between schools, businesses and territories, capable of overcoming even the highest waves.