Abstract
With the strong growth being experienced (and further forecast) within the blue economy, significantly driven by the requirement for energy security, there is increasingly an industry workforce shortage. This shortage alongside the work/life balance expectation of a new generation entering the industry requires a new approach to how we manage our marine operations. The introduction of larger, longer- endurance uncrewed surface vessels (USVs) is not only transforming how these vessels are operated, but also how conventional crewed vessels collect and process geo-data. Improvements in vessel connectivity alongside increased automation and digitalization is driving a major change in the operational model for offshore geo-data collection using onboard, hull-based sensor arrays and onboard remote operated or autonomous vehicle that can be programmed and controlled from a remote location. Advancements in offshore communications, the use of cloud-based processing and data storage, and the infrastructure within a network of onshore remote operations centers that can be located anywhere in the world is enabling a transformation in how geo-data is acquired and processed. These advancements deliver an increase in sustainability, improvement in safety and improving efficiencies, meaning experts are now available for consultation without the burden of additional logistics required to mobilize the field. Likewise, career pathways within the offshore geo-data sector are becoming increasingly more varied with strong technical career opportunities offshore and onshore. This will provide opportunities for a more diverse workforce, and we are seeing a convergence in the operational approach being utilized on both USVs and conventional crewed vessels. This change in the offshore operational model has implications for the workforce currently involved in the industry, from trainee through to the end client, as well as for the future workforce joining our industry. The development of new technologies and the improvement of existing and new production scenarios will allow for a safer work environment and contribute to a sustainable and livable world.
