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OFFSHORE TRENDS emies have continued to and substantially lower

Considering the number and type(s) of vessels develop training programs price. Together, this currently laid up in the Gulf of Mexico region and around the needs of this opportunity provides the need for new and relevant training platforms sector. Sea time on train- unprecedented oppor- for the nation’s maritime schools, this ? eet of ing vessels and merchant tunities to students and ships of unlimited tonnage cadets while promoting inactive OSVs represents a potentially unique was seen as taking priority a sustainable approach opportunity to create a diverse, Multi-Mission over smaller vessels serving to the industry and pro-

Maritime Education Fleet comprised of high the coastal, inland, and off- viding a higher return tech vessels that are capable of performing shore trades. Presumably, on investment to tax- both training and commercial functions, and are experience on unlimited payers in comparison tonnage vessels could be to proposed newbuild readily equipped with the modern equipment more easily transferred to programs.

now standard across the maritime industry. smaller vessels versus the With the creation of opposite direction. a modern and pragmat-

Existing OSVs already ful? ll many of the requirements ic ? eet of vessels cadets, midshipmen, students, veterans, outlined in proposed regulation currently before Congress and technicians can learn, grow, and graduate with compe- and the Senate, but to ful? ll the needs of the industry and tence and applicable experience that would prepare them the nation, cadets will need to be trained and prepared for as licensed mariners and leaders for service in the transpor- service in both the limited and unlimited tonnage markets. tation and defense needs of the Nation.

The proposed Multi-Mission Maritime Education Fleet of- fers a viable alternative to the traditional training philosophy which continues to be promoted in the current legislation.

Industrial (R)Evolution

Understanding and accepting the modern maritime industry, including all of its various facets, will allow the training institutions and their programs to evolve at a pace consistent with industry trends. A Multi-Mission

Maritime Education Fleet can evolve with the industry offering a functioning ? eet of mobile learning platforms capable of ful? lling multiple purposes and industrial mis- sions while making use of existing assets, at a potentially

Chad is an independent consultant with two decades of experience in the maritime industry. He sailed internationally as a Chief Engineer before shifting focus shoreside, consulting clients in marine operations, engineering, and dynamic positioning.

As the owner of (R)Evolution Consulting &

Engineering Services, Chad provides new and innovative approaches to marine operations, engineering, and professional development guided by his Company’s core mission, “Protecting commercial viability through integrity assurance.”

Chad volunteers his time to industry groups including the

National Offshore Safety Advisory Committee and the Marine

Technology Society and acts as an adviser to the US Coast Guard and other organizations.

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