The use of dynamic positioning (DP) systems has never been higher. Not only are offshore fleets expanding, but the use of DP across other ship types is also increasing rapidly, with DP even used on the likes of cruise ships and superyachts.
This increase in DP vessels has naturally driven demand for certified DP operators (DPO). In response to this, The Nautical Institute (NI) has accredited the latest DP training centre, this time in Barcelona, and has reached something of a landmark figure.
The successful accreditation of the Facultat de Nautica de Barcelona’s (FND) Dynamic positioning training centre has seen the number of accredited training providers reach an historic half-century. There are now 50 centres worldwide providing the highest standards of DP training for DPO’s following the Nautical Institute training scheme and route to certification.
The FND course was awarded it’s accredited status, when Captain Mark Pointon the Nautical Institute DP Training Manager visited the centre to inspect the facilities, the course materials and standard of lecturers.
In recognising the significance of reaching such a momentous figure, Captain Pointon said, “The accreditation of the 50th DP training centre has been a time to reflect on the success of the Nautical Institute’s training scheme, but also the importance of a standardised and robust scheme to ensure a supply of trained, skilled and certified DPO’s”.
He added, “We wish the new Barcelona centre a prosperous future, and are pleased to welcome them into a very special fraternity, that of the NI accredited training centres worldwide”.
With a number of additional new centres due to come on-stream over the next six months, it has never been easier for mariners to access the training they need to pursue a career as DPO, while the scheme provides industry with a desperately needed supply of skilled and certified operators.