Grand Bahama Shipyard Strengthens Bahamian Workforce Development Through the Expanding Apprenticeship Programme
“The Apprenticeship programme is the starting point in the company’s manpower strategy for developing Bahamian talent. This is a structured four-year programme which will qualify our Apprentices with internationally recognised trade certifications. These certifications are essential in our industry, enabling individuals to progress from trade positions into supervisory, managerial, and leadership roles.”
— Gary Bentinck, Vice President of Human Resources at Grand Bahama Shipyard
The latest cohort of apprentices has successfully completed an initial four-month training programme at the Bahamas Technical and Vocational Institute (BTVI), where they were introduced to the fundamentals of shipyard repair operations. The group will now travel to the United Kingdom to continue their training at the Engineering College in Liverpool, where they will spend the next four months advancing their technical knowledge and skills in their chosen trades.
The apprentices are joined by family and loved ones at the airport for a warm send-off before boarding their flight to Liverpool.
For families, the programme represents more than technical training—it is a source of pride and opportunity. Chaniece Pinder, whose grandson Dunrell Pinder is among the apprentices, shared her perspective:
“At this time, just being here to see my grandson — I feel like I’m part of this programme too. I’m so proud of him for being given this opportunity to excel, grow, and mature. To travel such a long distance without his siblings makes me even prouder. I must commend the Shipyard for giving him this chance. Thank you, Shipyard, thank you.”
— Chaniece Pinder, grandmother of apprentice Dunrell Pinder
The expansion of the Apprenticeship Programme comes at a pivotal time for Grand Bahama Shipyard. “2026 is a transitional year for the Shipyard as we return to a three-dock operation,” explained Chris Earl, CEO at Grand Bahama Shipyard. “With the imminent arrival of the new Lucayan Dock and its expected commissioning in the third quarter, we will have the largest vessel lifting capacity in the world. This $650 million investment, alongside initiatives like our Apprenticeship Programme, reflects our confidence in The Bahamas and its people as long-term partners in building a truly world-class operation.”
The 12 GBSL apprentices pictured at the Engineering College in Liverpool with Chris Evans, College tutor; Gary Bentinck, VP of Human Resources; and Kevin Cairns, commercial services manager.
