Opportunity for the next generation of maritime professionals: "Fahrenheit. Future competencies" program launched

Learning by doing at the land–sea interface

The project aims to develop practical, future-oriented competencies in STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics). A key feature is its hands-on approach, enabling participants to apply knowledge in real-world socio-economic contexts. In a region such as Pomerania, the maritime sector provides a natural environment for this type of learning, offering stable and ambitious career paths.

Participants work in teams of two to three students under the supervision of a teacher. Each team develops an original solution addressing challenges such as: "How can science and technology be used to build future competencies while improving the quality of life in local communities?"

Career on the rise: your future at sea

The program places strong emphasis on skills essential for modern maritime and port-related professions. Projects may combine STEM development with tangible impact on coastal communities—from advanced technology education to systems improving energy and resource efficiency, including offshore wind applications.

Proposed projects may include:

• tools or platforms supporting the development of technical skills relevant to the maritime sector
• educational initiatives promoting maritime careers as an attractive professional path
• projects focused on future skills such as automation, underwater robotics, and modern navigation systems
• solutions linking schools and maritime universities with the shipbuilding and logistics industries

Young people driving change locally and beyond

- We invite young people who want to go beyond standard school frameworks. This program offers a unique opportunity to gain project-based experience similar to real business environments, says Bartosz Kilijanek, project manager at Startup Academy. - The initiative aims to show that STEM innovations can genuinely improve quality of life in Pomerania.

Each submitted project should be based on the analysis of a real problem identified in, for example, a port, shipyard, or coastal municipality. Teams are expected to propose a technology- or engineering-based solution to the identified challenge.

Recruitment details

The program is open to teams of two to three secondary school students (second- and third-year) from the Pomeranian region, working under teacher supervision.

• application process: submission form and a short video presenting the idea and team motivation
• support: webinars and a workshop and mentoring phase
• awards: participation is free of charge; top teams will receive certificates, and the grand prize is a study visit to an international museum or science center

The program is organized by the Fahrenheit Union of Universities in cooperation with Aramco, with support from Startup Academy. It is also backed by the Marshal’s Office of the Pomeranian Voivodeship.

• Further details and the application form are available on the program’s official website.