Since the launch of the Early Career Ocean Professionals (ECOPs) Network Programme in 2021 under the UN Ocean Decade Framework and the extensive global development of its regional and national nodes, the ECOP China Node was established in 2023 and is dedicated to empowering Chinese ECOPs by fostering collaborations with domestic and global organizations and enhancing their capabilities by providing new career and training opportunities. This presentation will explore the global opportunities and ways of engaging in global affairs for Chinese ECOPs, the development and visions of the ECOP China Node, and the experiences and lessons learned from building the Node, which aims to enhance collaboration by providing stakeholder engagement strategies and introducing ECOPs to information and knowledge sharing communities. Joint efforts will be made to explore alternative career opportunities and future advancement in the career paths of ECOPs by strengthening their capacities, providing accessible opportunities, building long-term career development networks through exploring and establishing mentoring relationships. According to the strategic plan, a career development information platform will be established and serve as a key tool for integrated information sharing, resource access and career guidance, helping Asian ECOPs to get the latest information on international conferences, industry trends, development trends and career opportunities. By developing this platform and conducting domestic and regional training courses and webinars, we aim not only to strengthen the cohesion of the ECOP network in China, but also to foster friendly relations with ECOP nodes in other Asian countries, and further catalyze direct communication and cooperation among ECOP networks in the Asia-Pacific region.
 

Partnerships Building; Career Opportunities; ECOP China