By Neto Baptiste
Residents who may be contemplating a career in the yachting and marine industry but are still a bit hesitant could have their lingering questions answered during this week’s Discover Yachting and Marine Expo put on by the Antigua and Barbuda Yachting and Marine Association (ABYMA).
The two-day event, which will span Wednesday and Thursday this week (November 6 & 7), is aimed at introducing the yachting industry to residents while highlighting available career opportunities.
President of the ABYMA, Franklyn Braithwaite, gave some insight as to what will happen during the expo.
“On Wednesday, we are going to have a bit of an opening ceremony where we will have the Governor General [Sir Rodney Williams], we will have minister [Chet] Greene, I think minister [Max] Fernandez and then myself as president will do my presidential dance — don’t worry, it won’t be ballet. Everybody will have their booths or their little stands under a tent and so persons would be able to come and speak to anybody. Some persons may be doing a bit of a demonstration on part of their product or have products out,” he said.
The event is set to sail off at 9am and dock at 6pm on both days.
Braithwaite highlighted a new feature that will be available to participants this year in the form of a help deck that will help guide them in the right direction.
“What we have also this year, which is new, is an educational desk so if you come you can go and ask your questions that you are pretty much trying to get answers for, that will give you a better idea as to what is available in the industry and steer you into a different pathway. People will have curious questions if they don’t know what exists in the sector so that information desk would help you to understand better,” he said.
The marine boss also had a bit of advice for potential participants and those looking for a serious career in the industry.
“One thing that is important [is] punctuality, being on time. So, if you can’t make it then say you can’t make it because when a boat has to leave it has to leave and you can’t tell somebody see you tomorrow, because that doesn’t work.
“Also, come prepared to work flexible hours or long hours because it is what the industry demands. Sometimes, you’re working on a project, the boat has to leave and a nine-to-five can’t finish it, so you have to put in those extra hours and you get it done. I have gone on boats and come off at midnight sometimes but you know what? A client left that is super happy and once he starts spreading the word then you don’t have to pay for any advertisement because that is your marketing there,” Braithwaite said.
A number of businesses within the industry are expected to be on show during the expo as they seek to recruit new employees while educating the public on some of the products and services they offer.
