It’s Training Time!
These past few days have been spent sitting in on Simulator Courses at the local Union Hall.
Both Bridge Resource Management and Watchstanding Classes are only a couple of the required courses which are prerequisites for taking the Chief Mate License exam. The three day BRM Class went well, last week as the seven students including myself were put through the rigors of various scenarios utilizing the humungous 360 degree simulator. It was a true test, as we, the students felt a bit under pressure yet the instructors seemed excited just the same and introduced some interesting situations which we would otherwise not feel comfortable, without a “real” Captain on the Bridge.
In my group of three mariners, we each took turns acting as Captains and took the conn all the while the other two assisted in monitoring the RADARS and Electronic Chart Displays (ECD) or steered using the Helm. Each subsequent scenario, we switched positions to get a flair for the other duties.
My wife was a bit hesitant with an invite to sit-in on a scenario but gave in and watched our progress as we made a nighttime Arrival into Long Beach Port,California.
I have completed that BRM Course, and now my first day of Watchstanding has come to an end as it discusses Collision Regulations pertaining to Rule of the Road for vessels. More simulator training along with short quizzes on already familiar “Rules” are expected.
The Fort Lauderdale, Florida region has been blanketed with a cold weather front as temperatures have plummeted to freezing at night, and unseasonable daytime temps. have made most Floridians somewhat weary and speechless.
Have a good day, folks!
Discussion Area - Leave a Comment
You must be logged in to post a comment.