Willock’s Marine Workshop Praised
A one-day marine-sector workshop organised by Third District Representative Willock and the Third District Committee drew more than 45 residents to the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre on July 30, 2026. The event brought together government, education and private-sector partners to explain career paths, training, labour rights and business opportunities in the British Virgin Islands’ marine industry.
Willock and the Third District Committee hosted a well-attended, one-day marine workshop at the Valerie O. Thomas Community Centre on Thursday, July 30, 2026, drawing more than 45 residents of all ages. The session aimed to give local people practical guidance on careers in the marine sector, requirements for becoming a boat captain, and the education and scholarship pathways available through H.
Organisers partnered with private charter companies, the VI Shipping Registry, industry owners and professionals, the Labour Department, Umi Fashion and Mrs. McLean to deliver a wide-ranging programme. Presentations covered the multi-billion-dollar scope of the marine industry, routes to ownership and investment, résumé writing, dressing for success and expectations around work ethic.
The Labour Department also briefed both employers and employees on their rights and responsibilities under the Labour Code. The workshop received visible support from elected officials. Deputy Premier and Minister for Environment, Natural Resources and Climate Change and Third District Representative Honourable Julian Fraser, RA, was among those backing the initiative.
Minister for Health and Social Development Honourable Vincent O. Wheatley (R9) and Junior Minister for Financial Services, Economic Development and Digital Transformation Honourable Lorna G. Willock and said she would meet with marine-sector stakeholders in the coming weeks. Junior Minister for Culture and Tourism Honourable Luce D.
Hodge-Smith (R4) endorsed the event and described it as timely for the territory. Participants left with a clearer understanding of credential and training requirements to enter the sector, practical steps to build careers or start marine-related businesses, and guidance on professional presentation and employment rights.
For many residents of the BVI, the marine industry — central to tourism, inter-island transport and yachting services — offers significant economic opportunity; the workshop sought to make those opportunities more accessible to local people. The Third District Marine Workshop was supported by sponsors including Long Bay Beach Resort, Dr.
Lavity Stoutt Community College, BCQS, Julien N. Johnson of Island Time, Nanny Cay Resort, Biras Creek Resort, My Caribbean Charters, Navigare Yachting and Patsy C. Organisers said follow-up meetings and sector engagement will continue to help translate the workshop’s guidance into jobs and local business growth.
Primary source: VINO