The human element in autonomous shipping: a study on skills and competency requirements

Abstract This study examines the evolving landscape of the shipping industry in the context of Maritime Autonomous Surface Ships (MASS), with a focus on the critical role of Maritime Education and Training (MET). As the sector undergoes rapid transformation, there is a pressing need for MET providers to adapt their curricula and training programs to meet emerging industry standards. Despite growing research interest in future skills and competencies for the MASS workforce, a comprehensive framework for assessing and ranking these skills remains lacking. To address this gap, we propose the application of multi-criteria decision-making (MCDM) techniques, specifically fuzzy Technique for Order of Preference by Similarity to Ideal Solution (TOPSIS) to evaluate and prioritise proficiency requirements for MASS. The analysis, based on the responses of 174 experts, yields consistent and robust results, identifying ‘Operational Skills’, ‘Digital Skills’, and ‘Maritime Competency’ as the most crucial skills and competencies for MASS operations. A number of insights and recommendations are provided to guide MET institutions in updating their educational offerings to meet the demands of the evolving maritime industry.