(GRAY, La.) — The Offshore Service Vessel Dynamic Positioning Authority (OSVDPA) in the U.S. has announced that the Marine Training Institute (TMTI) in Gray, La., is the first training provider to be accredited to conduct OSVDPA dynamic positioning operator (DPO) training courses and assessments.
The OSVDPA’s executive director, Aaron Smith, said, “We were very pleased with the professionalism and expertise exhibited by TMTI. Throughout our accreditation process, every member of their team proved their commitment to upholding the highest standards and a dedication to training and certifying DPOs.”
Under the OSVDPA certification system, those wanting to become DPOs must complete two classroom courses, one focused on the theoretical knowledge behind DP operation and the other gaining DP experience via the use of DP simulators. By securing accreditation, TMTI can now begin conducting these courses.
Accreditation provides TMTI the ability to conduct the OSVDPA final assessment and revalidation assessment. These practical tests of a DPO’s ability to safely operate a DP system are designed to be conducted either on a simulator or on a DP vessel. Under the OSVDPA system, DPOs who wish to "grandfather" their existing DPO certificate to an OSVDPA certificate must pass the revalidation assessment.
TMTI training manager George Raab said, “The OSVDPA’s accreditation process was intense. They examined every aspect of our centre, simulators, curriculum, and instructors. But they were also helpful, whenever I had a question or concern, the OSVDPA was there with answers and a willingness to find solutions.”
The OSVDPA accreditation process involves the applicant submitting a package of forms describing their operation, curriculum, facilities, simulators, and instructors. Once submitted, OSVDPA staff and an independent OSVDPA-approved auditor review all of the information to ensure all OSVDPA requirements are satisfied. After the document review is completed, OSVDPA staff and an independent auditor visit the training provider to ensure the facility and simulator meet OSVDPA standards, assess the instructors, and observe the instructors conducting courses and assessments.
For more information, visit www.themarinetraininginstitute.com.
