When Maritime Expertise and Volunteering Go Hand in Hand
Denmark’s maritime sector and Mercy Ships share a strong international outlook, professional curiosity, and commitment to making a difference, according to Lars Ahrendtsen, CEO of BlueTech Center in Svendborg.
Ahrendtsen supports Mercy Ships because the organization delivers visible and measurable impact. Operating two hospital ships along the African coast, Mercy Ships provides life-changing surgeries to vulnerable patients while also helping strengthen local healthcare capacity to ensure long-term benefits.
“That’s the best outcome,” says Ahrendtsen, highlighting the importance of creating sustainable change rather than short-term intervention.
The approach reflects BlueTech Center’s own mission. Supported by nine municipalities on Funen, the organization helps maritime startups enter the industry through networking, mentoring, and advisory services. Today, BlueTech Center supports 25 startups and brings together 80 member companies focused on topics including sustainability, diversity, and innovation.
Mercy Ships’ global volunteer network also resonates strongly with the maritime industry. Each year, more than 3,000 volunteers from 75 countries contribute to the organization’s work. According to Ahrendtsen, maritime professionals are accustomed to multicultural environments and international collaboration, making Mercy Ships a natural fit for the sector.
Two years ago, BlueTech Center and its member companies chose to donate funds traditionally used for Christmas gifts to support Mercy Ships. The organization also raises awareness of Mercy Ships through presentations and collaborations with institutions such as the Svendborg International Maritime Academy (SIMAC).
Ahrendtsen has particular admiration for the volunteers who dedicate months of their lives to the mission. He also notes that maritime professionals can gain unique leadership and operational experience aboard hospital ships, where technical operations support complex healthcare environments including laboratories and operating theatres.
Having spent 19 years with A.P. Møller–Maersk after qualifying as a marine engineer, Ahrendtsen admits he has considered volunteering himself. Combining his maritime background with humanitarian work, he says, would be a meaningful way to give back while returning to life at sea.
Source: Mercy Ships / Svend Løbner
