MASS Certified Professional Training Scheme
Development of a training scheme to support safe uncrewed vessel operations
“Gaining MCA voluntary recognition demonstrates that in the absence of internationally agreed standards for MASS Training, SeaBot Maritime’s training promotes maritime safety and the protection of the marine environment, whilst seeking to promote best practice within the industry.”
Rob Gale, MCA Autonomy Vessel Training Lead
USV Sector
Worldwide
USV Operations
Training Needs Analysis
Training Development
Training Delivery
What was the project...
Background
The maritime sector, encompassing naval defence and commercial operations, stands at the threshold of revolutionary change. While decision support technology is already shaping operational functions through the integration of analytical tools and established rules, the future of maritime work is poised to undergo a paradigm shift. By 2050, over 50% of operational functions are expected to be executed by technology, necessitating a proactive approach to workforce adaptation and the assimilation of new skills through continuous professional development.
To fully harness the potential of this connected transformation, the maritime industry must forge a sustainable and inclusive ecosystem that harmonizes human-machine partnerships. The integration of remote and autonomous systems presents unprecedented opportunities, but without meticulous management of the relationship between humans and decision technology, new and substantial risks may emerge. To mitigate these risks, it is imperative to trial, test, and de-risk new systems with a highly skilled workforce adept at combined human-machine decision-making. The application of new technologies should align with legal and regulatory requirements while upholding ethical principles to avoid unintended harm.
Course development
SeaBot Maritime recognised this need for a comprehensive approach to upskilling the workforce, with competencies developed through consultation with regulators, manufacturers and operators that would continue to grow with industry developments.
Working with operators in the field, and through engagement with various industry stakeholder working groups, SeaBot Maritime created a roadmap which would build upon an operators existing knowledge and support their upskilling in key areas, leading to competence in uncrewed vessel operations. Training would build on existing established maritime training schemes and would complement, rather than replace, OEM-provided training. The overarching goal; to equip operators and managers with the proficiency, knowledge, and preparedness required to navigate the challenges associated with operating these cutting-edge craft.
SeaBot Maritime started delivering training in Uncrewed Surface Vessel (USV) operations in 2021, and in October 2022 received MCA recognition for the first course in the scheme; the first training of its kind to be recognised by a national flag.
Since then, this pioneering course has had significant impact within the uncrewed sector, aiding organisations in the development of operational safety cases in support of an approvals process. Demonstrating that remote operators have undertaken recognised training that supports their safe and efficient control of the vessel. The course being agnostic of system type and operational environment, is equally applicable to commercial and defence, and has been completed by personnel from a range background including offshore companies and the Royal Navy.
As the uncrewed sector continues to evolve, so too does the training. SeaBot Maritime continues to ensure that this course remains abreast of cutting-edge industry developments, informed by real-world operations and industry best practice.
Learn more about the training scheme and register your interest here