The Department of Marine and Ports Services is highlighting two exciting maritime training programmes aimed at enticing young Bermudians to join their ranks.
And today, the Head of the Public Service, Cherie Whitter notes that this recruitment drive for Marine Pilots and Maritime Operation Controllers is aligned with the Government’s goal of attracting, keeping and training new talent, especially in areas that are hard to fill. This initiative is in keeping with the increased investment in the Public Service as highlighted in the last two Budget Statements.
Ms. Whitter explained that hard to fill posts are those areas where talent is limited locally and sometimes globally, and where the Service is, or has become, reliant on overseas talent. These are also, areas where specialist skills require many years to acquire.
The Head of the Public Service said, “Globally, marine pilots are in high demand, especially in busy and crowded waterways, where they help ships navigate safely and efficiently.
“In Bermuda, several branch pilots will attain the age of retirement within the next five years.
“The Public Service is therefore re-introducing the marine pilot programme and adding the marine operations controller training programme.”
Mr. Rudolph Cann, the Director of Marine and Ports Services said, “Many young people don't know or appreciate the work of marine pilots, so they don't think about this career option. Many are not fully aware of what marine pilots do, or how they can benefit and grow from this job.
“The training for marine pilots is long and hard. It takes five years, and it has both theory and practice components. The trainees will ultimately acquire a master mariner certificate and gain the required sea service experience.”
Meanwhile, he also notes that the post of Maritime Operation Controllers watches and controls the traffic and activities of vessels in Bermuda’s ports. They use radar, radio, and computer systems to track the movements of vessels, and talk to the pilots, tug operators, berth operators, and other port staff to make sure the vessels arrive and leave safely and quickly. They also give information and advice to the vessels on weather, tide, dangers, and port rules, and deals with any emergency or problem that may happen in the port area.
Ms. Whitter concluded, “The last time these training programmes were fully in effect were in 2016 and 2019 respectively. We are highlighting these opportunities as part of our Careers in the Public Service campaign and to attract and retain qualified Bermudians. So, we invite all young people who love the sea, to imagine a career in the public service as a marine pilot or a maritime operations controller and to apply today.”
For more information about the posts and the qualifications, visit www.govtcareers.gov.bm. The closing deadline for applicants is August 9, 2024.