The Isle of Man is pleased to welcome 17 delegates from Nigeria, France, Libya, Philippines, Germany, Poland and the UK for the Ship Superintendents’ Training Course this week.  The course is taking place at the Nunnery site of the Isle of Man College of Further and Higher Education.
 
The intensive nine day course, run by EMCS International Limited, is designed for technical, marine superintendents and maritime personnel and delivered by a team of professionals known to be the industry’s best.
 
Although originally designed for newly appointed recruits to the position of Superintendent and seagoing Engineers and Deck Officers coming ashore, the training has evolved to provide an excellent foundation in all aspects of maritime operations.  Topics covered range from Dry Docking, Quality Assurance, Environmental Issues, Reporting for Owners, Insurance, Commercial Knowledge, Legal Issues, Budgeting and Cost Controls, Major Damage Workshops, Emissions to Time and Safety Management and Ship Registration.
 
Alex Downie OBE MLC, the Isle of Man Department of Economic Development’s Political Member with responsibility for shipping, commented:

‘The Ship Superintendents Course run in the Isle of Man is unique in its content and delivery. It provides senior sea-going officers with all of the tools and knowledge required to move into a shore-based position looking after the day-to-day operation of a number of vessels. Using experts who are currently working in ship management and other experts working in the professional support industries, it provides the most up-to-date information, real-life experiences and practical exercises to deliver the course.’
 
Dick Welsh, Director of the Isle of Man Ship Registry said:

‘In my experience no other course sustains the level of practical experience and knowledge- sharing which the Isle of Man course packs into a very intensive nine days. For the attendees, the experience does not end there. The lecturers provide contact details and are happy to provide assistance to delegates once the course has finished. The course has also been found to be very rewarding for current superintendents to refresh their knowledge or for other roles within ship management to gain knowledge.’
 
As testament to the value of the programme, employers of previous delegates have unanimously endorsed this training and have reported improved efficiencies in the staff who have attended as a result.  These same companies are now sending delegates on a continual basis.  EMCS International Limited has also seen a rise in the number of candidates who choose this programme to enhance their future careers, registering independently of an employer. Subsequently, these delegates have gained more rewarding employment as a result of their attendance.
 
Steve George, Director of EMCS International Limited, feels that the success of the course is due to the quality and experience of the lecturers. He says:

‘We feel that the sponsors and managers of this course have shown outstanding commitment to the success of this programme. Whilst some lecturers give their time freely, and all bring their wealth of knowledge, the team is committed to improve the performance of the delegates, and hence benefit the companies that they represent.’