The emergence of remote and autonomous uncrewed maritime vessels has created a need for training to provide seafarers, experienced and novice, the skills required to operate these vessels efficiently and safely.  An Apprenticeship Trailblazer Group, chaired by SeaBot Maritime, was created by key industry members and the Royal Navy to develop Apprenticeship standards  in Autonomous and Remote Vessel Operations.   The working group identified the standard of basic skills required to undertake and manage these operations, and has developed an Apprenticeship scheme to develop the skills amongst new (and existing) seafarers. The apprenticeship will include training on safely navigating, controlling and managing small to medium-sized vessels and will define the occupational and training standards required of an apprenticeship.   

 

The working group is being supported in the development process by the regulator for apprenticeship quality, the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education and includes the National Oceanography Centre; marine robotics company, Ocean Infinity; geo-data specialist, Fugro; insurer Shipowners P&I Club and the Royal Navy as founding members. 

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In January 2022, the Institute for Apprenticeships & Technical Education approved the Occupational Proposal for the Uncrewed Marine Vehicle Specialist apprenticeship.

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