Professional Identity, Career Continuity, and Economic Security: Understanding Indonesian Seafarer Career Trajectory Decisions and Retention Barriers

Abstract

This research investigates sociological factors influencing Indonesian seafarers' decisions to remain in maritime careers versus transitioning to shore-based roles, examining how professional identity formation, family expectations, economic circumstances, and institutional support systems shape maritime career longevity and advancement. Through focus group discussions with four former seafarers reflecting on complete career trajectories, four senior maritime lecturers understanding cadet development patterns, and two veteran shipping officers guiding operational personnel, this study examines why talented maritime professionals exit the profession and what institutional support systems most effectively foster career retention. Findings reveal that maritime career decisions reflect complex negotiations among professional identity development, family economic pressures, and perceived advancement opportunities rather than simple economic calculations. The research identifies critical attrition points: early career (3-5 years for deck/engine officers), transition to management positions (10-12 years), and family formation periods correlating with pressure to transition to shore-based employment. The study demonstrates that career support extending beyond salary to include mentorship, professional development pathways, and family-inclusive institutional policies significantly influences retention outcomes. Research contributions include career guidance frameworks, institutional retention programs supporting all cadet tracks, and mentorship models effectively connecting former seafarers with emerging maritime professionals, directly supporting maritime education's commitment to developing sustainable maritime professional populations.

Keywords :  seafarer retention; maritime career pathways; professional identity; maritime employment; career development; family-maritime relations; cadet mentorship