LR opens $8m surveyor training facility in Shanghai

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Shanghai: Lloyd’s Register Asia today opened its first dedicated marine surveyor training centre in Shanghai.
The Maritime Surveyor Training Institute (MSTI) represents more than an US$8 million investment for the organisation in the first five years of operations, during which time 200 newly trained surveyors are expected to graduate from the program.
“Quality staff training provides the most significant contribution to the continued development of our core product -- the provision of independent technical assurance to the maritime industry,” said Roy Ellams, Lloyd’s Register Asia’s Marine Training Manager – North Asia. “It ensures that we always will have the right skills to support the provision of maritime transport services that are safe for both mariners and the environment.”
Ellams says the MSTI represents a new approach to the development of technical competency for the industry, offered at a time when commercial pressures are driving the need for innovation. With the recession shrinking access to new capital for companies in the maritime industry, he says new solutions are required for old problems.
“Innovation doesn’t just happen, it has to be stimulated and encouraged,” Ellams says. “The development of technical competencies is a key ingredient in that mix. It at once fulfils our responsibility to our staff, our clients and the greater public.”
A key element in that new approach is the appointment of experienced “surveyor-mentors” who will guide the trainees through the one-year program. Each program will feature 20 trainees and two programs will be held each year.  [25/03/09]