Blue Water Shipping has announced the opening of applications for its highly anticipated 2024 Trainee Program, offering invaluable opportunities for aspiring logistics professionals in Guyana. With a focus on developing talent within the country, the program aims to equip participants with essential skills in logistics and supply chain management while providing hands-on experience in an international setting.
In an exclusive interview with OilNOW, Blue Water’s General Manager Jennifer Falconer provided insights into the program’s objectives.
“The program is a two-year study in logistics and supply chain management, known as the International Freight Forwarding Trainee Program. You’re learning on a global scale about international freight forwarding and supply chain management,” Falconer explained.
Emphasizing the importance of the program, Falconer pointed to the rapid growth of the oil industry in Guyana since 2015 and the subsequent need for skilled professionals in supply chain management. “Prior to the emergence of the O&G sector, there was no emphasis on supply chain management through structured courses of study being offered locally but it has become very relevant to operators now.” She added that Blue Water Shipping has 52 years of experience, and welcomes the opportunity to build local capacity in this field.
The two-year program offers a unique blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge of which participants are required to work the first 12 months at the Blue Water Shipping office in Georgetown, followed by 12 months in one of the company’s worldwide offices.
Falconer elaborated, “During this program, there will be seven weeks of theoretical courses of physical classroom training at Blue Water Academy- Denmark combined with online training. Falconer also outlined the eligibility criteria for applicants as the completion of Secondary School education and fluency in English.
The program has garnered praise from past and current participants, with testimonials highlighting its impact.
Khemraj Samaroo, second trainee of 2022 states, “The experience has been nothing short of transformative, both personally and professionally. Working in freight forwarding here has not only provided me with invaluable skills and insights into the industry but has also exposed me to diverse cultures, perspectives, and ways of working.
His advice to prospective trainees considering the program is, “Embrace the challenges, seize every opportunity to learn, and immerse yourself fully in the experience. The rewards are immeasurable, and the skills and connections you’ll gain will pave the way for a successful career in international trade. Trust in the program, and let it guide you toward new horizons.
Alec Lumelino, a current trainee in the 2023 batch, expressed enthusiasm for the program, stating, “The program offers priceless experience as you proceed to work in fresh environments learning new trades and techniques, as well as meet new clients with different demands!”
Dawn Gamell, trainee of 2022 echoed similar sentiments pointing to the immense experience provided by the program. She said she joined the training program with the goal of deepening her understanding of logistics and freight forwarding, seeing it as a valuable opportunity to enhance her skills at the company. “So far, the experience has exceeded my expectations. Not only did I gain knowledge, but I also had the chance to immerse myself in different cultures, both within the classroom and in the host country,” she said. Her advice to future applicants is to embrace change, keep an open mind, value time, and absorb as much knowledge as possible, both academically and culturally.
Unlock Your Potential: Blue Water Shipping extends training to Guyanese nationals | OilNOW
According to Falconer, the program aims to empower individuals to excel in the dynamic field of logistics and supply chain management, contributing to the growth and prosperity of Blue Water Shipping and the sector overall.
Applications can be submitted via this link: International Freight Forwarding Trainee – Guyana I BWS (emply.com)
