Teesside has always looked to the water for opportunity. On Wednesday, 7th May 2025, that legacy will enter a bold new chapter with the official launch of the Tees Maritime Cluster at the Port of Middlesbrough.
This event marks a significant step in uniting industry leaders, educators, and public sector partners to align skills, education, and ambition with real needs. The launch aims to spotlight the vital role the maritime industry plays in the region’s economic future, initiate conversations on closing the skills gap, and create accessible routes into maritime careers.
The event will commence with a networking reception, followed by lunch, panel discussion, and interactive Q&A. Attendees will have the opportunity to understand how the Cluster will serve as a catalyst for wider growth, championing innovation, attracting inward investment, and strengthening the business ecosystem across Teesside. This launch is not just a celebration; it’s an invitation to shape the future of the maritime sector in the region.
In late 2024, the Department for Transport gave the green light to the Tees Maritime Cluster, a private sector-led initiative backed by industry heavyweight Maritime UK. More than a regional partnership, the Tees Maritime Cluster is a mission-driven initiative to harness Teesside’s maritime strength for national impact.
The cluster’s compass points firmly toward education and skills development. Recognising that nearly 18.5% of the local population lives in deprived areas, compared to a national average of 4%—there’s a pressing need to illuminate the diverse career paths within the maritime sector.
From orchestrating maritime training sessions to hosting careers events, the cluster aims to engage schoolchildren, students, and job seekers. It’s about demystifying the industry and showcasing roles ranging from marine engineering to logistics and beyond.
Leading the charge is Jo Vinton-Bullwinkel, the Operations Director, who brings two decades of expertise and will steer the cluster toward their goal of innovation, investment, and inclusivity.
The Tees Maritime Cluster isn’t just about economic growth; it’s about sustainable development. By fostering international collaborations and aligning with the UK’s Maritime 2050 strategy, the cluster is committed to reducing carbon footprints and championing green technologies.
