Training engineers for remotely operated ships of the future

A key driver within the developments of today’s maritime technology is the quest for autonomous or rather remotely operated ships. With the current pace of advancements, it is inevitable that autonomous ships will become a key driver within the shipping industry during the next 30 years. The role of marine engineers will then shift from seafarers to shore based personnel requiring new skills and expertise that are yet to be clearly defined. Therefore, the aim of this paper is to identify and discuss this emerging area from a Maritime Education and Training (MET) perspective. The paper highlights potential use of simulator-technologies and their advantages in training engineers for future autonomous ships. In addition, the paper discusses the limitations of simulator-based training approaches and new developments required within MET institutes to cater for the broader training and education needs of future autonomous ship engine room machinery operators.