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Fugro Middle East personnel have completed the first Maritime Autonomous Surface Systems (MASS) professional certified training delivered by SeaBot Maritime.

This certification marks a landmark step in the development of a recognised training programme that ensures qualified marine personnel acquire the skills needed to safely and effectively operate MASS.

Fugro and SeaBot XR have been working together since 2019 to develop the skills required by the connected mariner.  This initial phase of development adds to the existing skills held by qualified mariners assuring a safe transition from sea to shore.  Uniquely, the training is augmented to make it specific to Fugro operations.  

Focus is placed in on critical topics such as mission analysis, situational awareness, cyber security, communications, resource management, and vessel piloting skills.  

The training is based on experiential learning, where trainees are provided with an in-depth theoretical knowledge, before taking a staged approach to the command-and-control process.  

Candidates are able apply their newly acquired knowledge, skills and abilities directly to the working environment equipping them to deal with the challenges that await them as they put Fugro's ever-growing USV fleet to work.  

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Gordon Meadow, CEO at SeaBot Maritime said, it’s exciting to see this first cohort of MASS Professionals complete this inceptive stage of training, as we continue to roll out the broader MASS Certified Professional Training Scheme throughout 2022 - 2023.

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Hannes Swiegers, Fugro Director IRM Services and Remote Operations, said: “Whilst remote and autonomous technology will revolutionise the way we conduct business, the continued success of Fugro rests on the skills of our personnel. By investing in our people and ensuring that long-established industry standards are upheld, Fugro can confidently assure clients and regulators that our high safety and operational standards will remain as we develop our global network of remote operations centres and autonomous vehicles to support the maritime industry for a safe and sustainable world.”

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