Comments on Maritime Links Editor's Blog: Chief Mate/Master Management Program

The problem I believe lies with overreaching STCW ...

2008-12-10T13:07:00.000-08:00

The problem I believe lies with overreaching STCW requirements and the USCG. Don't get me wrong, I am prior CG and believe in training, but when a mariner cannot afford to advance due to STCW compliance...something is wrong! Furthermore, NMC was supposed to streamline and standardize? What a joke, now it takes three time the amount of time to close a file. Oh, get your TWIC card yet?!? What is next!

OK-Thanks for the rant

I haven't found another way to contact you guys--s...

2008-10-10T19:41:00.000-07:00

I haven't found another way to contact you guys--sorry that this is a bit off-topic: do you have suggestions on training for mariners who have been to college already?

I've found the workboat mate program of PMI/MTAGS, but am looking around at other options.

The first step for me seems to be finding a way to spend time onboard to get a better idea if life at sea will be what I hope (I wish to keep moving, to be outdoors, to not be around urban environments & cars, and to work with others).

I'm 32 now. I was accepted to USNA, USCGA when I was younger, but decided not to go (went to Maui to windsurf instead).

This is interesting but not surprising. I trained...

2008-06-26T07:54:00.000-07:00

This is interesting but not surprising. I trained under both the British and US systems. The British was directed to educate you and pass the Certificate of Competency. The US was a cram school. Geared solely to pass the exam by repeatedly doing former exams first on forms later on terminals. In fact when I sat Ocean Master 2/3 of the questions I had answered in school. Professional education was not offered by the school. Good Watch.

100% agreed! what a waste of time. 3 weeks to go...

2008-05-08T13:55:00.000-07:00

100% agreed! what a waste of time. 3 weeks to go for me.