Labor shortage in the Brazilian Navy: Thousands of vacancies for Navy Officers, but lack of qualified labor

Study reveals that Brazil could face a deficit of up to 4 cabotage Navy officers by 2030, compromising maritime operations. The labor shortage requires an urgent response to ensure the training and training of new professionals in the sector.

In the coming years, the Brazilian maritime sector will face a significant challenge: the growing shortage of labor naval officers specialized in navigation and cabotage. A recent study conducted by the Vanzolini Foundation and USP's Center for Innovation in Logistics and Port Infrastructure, in collaboration with ABAC and SYNDARMA, reveals alarming projections. By 2030, it is estimated that the country could face a deficit of up to 4 officers, compromising not only the operability of vessels, but also the safety and efficiency of maritime activities.

Challenges and impacts of labor shortages

According to search, the lack of qualified labor can result in significant operational difficulties.

With 96 navigation and cabotage projects currently in the environmental licensing phase with IBAMA, an increase in demand for vessels is expected, especially those intended for maritime support.

This scenario reinforces the urgent need to prepare new professionals to meet the sector's future demands.

Preparation and training of Navy Officers

To meet the projected deficit, the Brazilian Navy needs to expand its training capacity.

Currently, the Merchant Marine Officer Training Schools (EFOMM), such as CIAGA in Rio de Janeiro and CIABA in Belém, are responsible for preparing these professionals.

However, the number of vacancies offered varies depending on the economic conditions of the sector, which may result in periods of scarcity during phases of economic growth.

Economic and strategic impact

Professor João Ferreira Netto, coordinator of the study, highlights that training these professionals requires time and specialization, with many graduates dedicating around five years to specializing in specific operations before fully entering the market.

This gap between training and effective availability in the job market could further exacerbate the challenges faced by the Brazilian maritime sector in the coming years.

Projections and strategic responses to the labor shortage in the Brazilian Navy

In addition to interviews with shipowners, Navy officials and union representatives, the study also considered the potential impacts of future projects, such as the installation of offshore wind farms in Brazil.

These initiatives will not only increase the demand for maritime transport, but will also require a robust contingent of officers trained to operate in Brazilian waters.

Given these alarming projections, it is crucial that Brazil intensifies its efforts in training and training new Navy officers.

Collaboration between educational institutions, the private sector and the government will be essential to mitigate the impacts of labor shortages and ensure the sustainability and efficiency of maritime operations in the country.

Source: PetroNotícias.