Enhancing Maritime Training: Addressing Key Pain Points in Cadet Placement

At the Ethiopian Maritime Training Institute (EMTI), we are committed to producing skilled professionals ready to meet the demands of the maritime industry. Our comprehensive cadet training program focuses on training Electro Technical Engineers and Mechanical Engineers, ensuring they are prepared for real-world challenges.

In our journey, we have compiled a list of 100 pain points faced by vessels, captains, owners, and crewing agencies regarding the placement of cadets and engineers onboard vessels. By identifying these challenges, we can proactively train our cadets to be as sea-ready as possible prior to deployment through our Manning Agency, EMA Marine, which is based in Germany, and our offices in Greece and Cyprus.

Key Pain Points in Cadet Placement

1. Onboarding and Integration Issues: Cadets often encounter language barriers, lack familiarity with the vessel, and struggle with cultural integration. We offer tailored language training, vessel-specific onboarding materials, and cultural sensitivity training to facilitate smoother transitions.

2. Operational Efficiency Challenges: Cadets may have a slow learning curve and lack practical skills. Our program includes scenario-based training and shadowing opportunities to enhance their hands-on experience and self-monitoring skills.

3. Safety and Health Concerns: Awareness of onboard hazards and the importance of Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) can be lacking. We provide comprehensive safety awareness courses and mental health support services to ensure cadets' well-being.

4. Compliance and Regulation Challenges: Understanding international regulations and ship-specific compliance can be daunting for new cadets. We emphasise training on IMO regulations and mock compliance exercises to prepare them thoroughly.

5. Productivity and Work Efficiency Issues: Many cadets struggle with time management and adapting to the work environment. Our pre-placement acclimatisation programs and mentoring systems are designed to enhance their productivity and efficiency from day one.

6. Crew Cohesion and Leadership Challenges: Building team spirit and understanding hierarchy can be challenging for new cadets. We integrate teamwork training and conflict resolution skills into our curriculum to promote a cohesive onboard environment.

7. Technical and Equipment Challenges: Many cadets lack experience with vessel machinery and equipment. We provide practical training modules to familiarise them with specific machinery, troubleshooting skills, and emergency shutdown procedures.

8. Administrative and Logistical Issues: Cadets often face challenges with document control and port procedures. Our training includes documentation management and port procedure workshops to streamline their onboarding experience.

9. Client and Owner Concerns: Shipowners require assurance regarding the quality of cadet training and safety. We offer transparency through training documentation and emphasise our commitment to safety and performance.

10. Crewing Agency Issues: Crewing agencies need reliable cadet quality and availability. We support agencies by pre-screening cadets, managing onboarding logistics, and providing real-time updates on cadet readiness and availability.

Our Commitment to Excellence

At EMTI, our goal is to transform the maritime training landscape by addressing these pain points head-on. We are dedicated to equipping our cadets with the skills, knowledge, and confidence they need to succeed in the maritime industry. By fostering collaboration with our Manning Agency, EMA Marine, and focusing on comprehensive training solutions, we strive to elevate the standards of maritime education and crew placement.

As we continue to grow and expand our reach, we invite partners in the maritime industry to join us in this mission. Together, we can create a more prepared and capable workforce that meets the evolving challenges of the global maritime landscape.

Let’s navigate towards excellence in maritime training and ensure a brighter future for our cadets and the industry at large!

100 Pain and challenge Points

Here are 100 pain points faced by vessels, captains, owners, and crewing agencies when it comes to the placement of cadets and engineers onboard vessels.

1-10: Onboarding and Integration Issues

1. Language Barriers - Many cadets struggle to communicate effectively onboard. - Solution: Provide language training modules tailored to maritime-specific communication.
2. Lack of Familiarity with Vessel - New cadets are often unfamiliar with the vessel's layout and systems. - Solution: Offer vessel-specific onboarding materials to reduce the learning curve.
3. Difficult Integration into Crew - Cadets may struggle to fit into existing crew dynamics. - Solution: Provide soft skills training to cadets on communication and team integration.
4. No Standardised Onboarding Process - The lack of a structured onboarding process creates inefficiencies. - Solution: Develop a structured onboarding protocol to streamline the process.
5. Cultural Differences - Crew members from different nationalities may struggle with cultural integration. - Solution: Offer cultural sensitivity training to cadets before deployment.
6. Inadequate Training in Company SOPs - Cadets aren't trained in specific company standard operating procedures. - Solution: Conduct pre-placement workshops focused on the company's operational standards.
7. Time Consuming Onboarding - Captains and senior crew spend too much time onboarding cadets. - Solution: Assign dedicated onboard mentors to reduce the workload on senior crew.
8. Initial Safety Risks - Inexperienced cadets may pose safety risks until they are familiar with protocols. - Solution: Train cadets in safety and emergency protocols before deployment.
9. Inefficient Familiarisation with Equipment - Cadets need time to understand vessel-specific equipment. - Solution: Provide virtual training modules on equipment before placement.
10. Lack of Onboard Familiarisation with Manuals - New cadets may take time understanding vessel manuals. - Solution: Assign a pre-joining online training manual session to cadets.

11-20: Operational Efficiency Challenges

1. Slow Learning Curve - Cadets take time to adjust, affecting efficiency. - Solution: Offer shadowing programs during the first few weeks.
2. Lack of Practical Skills - Cadets are theoretically well-versed but lack hands-on skills. - Solution: Include practical, scenario-based training as part of cadet preparation.
3. Need for Constant Supervision - Cadets require constant supervision, which takes time from senior crew. - Solution: Train cadets in self-monitoring and create milestone checklists for them to follow.
4. High Turnover Rate - Some cadets leave prematurely, leading to high turnover. - Solution: Conduct interviews to ensure cadets are committed to their contracts.
5. Inadequate Equipment Maintenance Skills - Cadets lack experience in equipment maintenance. - Solution: Provide extensive maintenance simulation training before boarding.
6. Difficulty in Managing Daily Routines - Cadets struggle with managing work shifts and routines. - Solution: Offer time management training, focusing on shift work and routines.
7. Errors in Record Keeping - Cadets make errors when recording log entries. - Solution: Provide detailed logbook training, covering common pitfalls.
8. Slow Compliance with Operational Procedures - Cadets take longer to adhere to established procedures. - Solution: Use simulation exercises to train cadets in following operational procedures.
9. Lack of Confidence During Emergency Situations - Cadets are often not prepared for onboard emergencies. - Solution: Include advanced emergency response training in the cadet program.
10. Difficulty with Navigational Tasks - Navigational awareness is lacking in many new cadets. - Solution: Conduct bridge simulation training as part of cadet preparation.

21-30: Crew Safety and Health Concerns

1. Lack of Safety Awareness - Cadets are unaware of potential onboard hazards. - Solution: Conduct comprehensive safety awareness courses during training.
2. Inadequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) Use - Cadets do not always use PPE properly. - Solution: Provide specialised training sessions on PPE usage and compliance.
3. Mental Health Concerns - Cadets may feel isolated or overwhelmed onboard. - Solution: Offer mental health support services, including counseling and hotlines.
4. Physical Fitness for Demanding Tasks - Some cadets struggle with the physical demands of the job. - Solution: Conduct fitness training programs before deployment.
5. Lack of Preparedness for Extreme Conditions - Cadets may not be ready for extreme weather conditions. - Solution: Train cadets in working under extreme temperature conditions.
6. Exposure to Maritime Health Risks - Cadets are sometimes unaware of health risks such as dehydration or fatigue. - Solution: Educate cadets on health risks and provide wellness guidelines.
7. Slower Response Time During Emergencies - Inexperienced cadets take longer to respond during emergencies. - Solution: Conduct regular emergency drill exercises during their initial onboard period.
8. Lack of Familiarity with Safety Drills - Cadets are often unfamiliar with safety drills. - Solution: Train cadets through simulated safety drills before boarding.
9. Seasickness and Physical Issues - New cadets may struggle with seasickness. - Solution: Educate cadets on coping techniques and preventive measures for seasickness.
10. Fatigue Due to Inexperience - Cadets often get fatigued adjusting to life at sea. - Solution: Offer training on managing fatigue and provide wellness resources.

31-40: Compliance and Regulation Challenges

1. Inadequate Knowledge of IMO Regulations - Cadets are often unfamiliar with international regulations. - Solution: Provide in-depth training on IMO regulations and standards.
2. Difficulty Understanding Ship-Specific Compliance - Each vessel may have different compliance requirements. - Solution: Include vessel-specific compliance orientation before deployment.
3. Errors in Record Keeping for Compliance - Cadets make mistakes in recording essential data. - Solution: Conduct mock compliance record-keeping exercises.
4. Lack of Familiarity with International Certifications - Cadets may be unaware of certain certification requirements. - Solution: Offer specific courses on international certifications.
5. Inadequate Documentation Skills - Cadets struggle to prepare documents required for compliance. - Solution: Train cadets in maritime documentation with practice sessions.
6. Unawareness of Port State Control Procedures - Cadets lack awareness of PSC inspections. - Solution: Conduct workshops on port state control and inspection readiness.
7. Miscommunication During Inspections - Cadets are unable to answer questions during inspections. - Solution: Offer mock inspection exercises, covering common questions and expectations.
8. No Familiarisation with Security Protocols - Cadets are not familiar with ISPS codes and onboard security. - Solution: Train cadets in ISPS code and onboard security measures.
9. Unfamiliarity with Waste Management Protocols - Cadets struggle with MARPOL regulations. - Solution: Provide detailed training on MARPOL and waste management procedures.
10. Inability to Complete Essential Documentation - Cadets fail to maintain updated records as required. - Solution: Provide structured training on record maintenance for compliance purposes.

41-50: Productivity and Work Efficiency Issues

1. Slow Adaptation to Work Environment - Cadets take a long time to adapt to the working environment onboard. - Solution: Conduct pre-placement acclimatization programs.
2. Low Productivity Levels Initially - New cadets often have lower productivity at the start. - Solution: Assign mentors to guide cadets during the initial phase.
3. Lack of Practical Experience - Cadets need extensive supervision to complete tasks. - Solution: Create additional practical training sessions for tasks such as maintenance and repairs.
4. Difficulty with Time Management - Cadets may struggle with managing work and rest hours. - Solution: Train cadets in proper time management, focusing on task prioritisation.
5. Inexperience with Multi-tasking - Cadets struggle to handle multiple responsibilities. - Solution: Assign multi-tasking exercises during training to build efficiency.
6. Poor Work Planning Skills - Cadets often lack planning skills for their tasks. - Solution: Provide workshops on planning and prioritising onboard tasks.
7. Inability to Meet Deadlines - Cadets struggle to complete work within deadlines. - Solution: Include deadline-based tasks during cadet training.
8. Lack of Understanding of Task Sequences - Cadets fail to understand the importance of completing tasks in the right order. - Solution: Provide scenario-based exercises demonstrating task sequence importance.
9. Frequent Supervision Required - Cadets need frequent oversight, taking time from senior staff. - Solution: Develop self-evaluation checklists for cadets.
10. Errors in Routine Operations - Cadets make mistakes in day-to-day onboard activities. - Solution: Assign mock exercises to simulate onboard operational tasks.

51-60: Crew Cohesion and Leadership Challenges

1. Lack of Team Spirit - Cadets may not understand their role in the crew. - Solution: Provide teamwork training and integrate soft skill development into their learning.
2. Difficulty Adjusting to Hierarchy - Cadets struggle to understand the onboard hierarchy. - Solution: Offer role-playing exercises that explain the onboard hierarchy.
3. Lack of Leadership Qualities - Cadets lack the skills to take on responsibilities when needed. - Solution: Include leadership workshops for cadets during training.
4. Inability to Handle Conflicts - Cadets find it challenging to handle conflicts onboard. - Solution: Offer conflict resolution training, teaching cadets how to mediate issues effectively.
5. Inadequate Communication Skills - Cadets lack the communication skills required for effective teamwork. - Solution: Conduct interpersonal communication workshops during their training.
6. Negative Attitudes Toward Feedback - Cadets may react poorly to constructive criticism. - Solution: Train cadets on receiving and applying feedback.
7. Difficulty Building Rapport with the Crew - Cadets sometimes struggle to bond with crew members. - Solution: Provide bonding exercises and team-building activities.
8. Lack of Respect for Authority - Some cadets may not fully understand the importance of respecting rank. - Solution: Include role-playing exercises emphasizing authority and hierarchy.
9. Difficulty in Taking Initiative - Cadets may avoid taking the lead on tasks. - Solution: Encourage cadets to take on leadership tasks during training.
10. Poor Problem-Solving Skills - Cadets are unsure how to solve problems independently. -Solution: Train cadets in problem-solving through scenario-based activities.

61-70: Technical and Equipment Challenges

1. Inadequate Understanding of Machinery - Cadets struggle to operate vessel machinery. - Solution: Provide practical machinery training before placement.
2. Limited Electrical System Knowledge - Cadets are not familiar with vessel electrical systems. - Solution: Provide hands-on electrical systems training.
3. Lack of Practical Maintenance Skills - Cadets need more practice in performing routine maintenance. - Solution: Include regular maintenance exercises in their training.
4. Unfamiliarity with Ship-Specific Equipment - Equipment differs across vessels, making it challenging for cadets. - Solution: Assign vessel-specific training materials before placement.
5. Inefficient Troubleshooting Skills - Cadets struggle with troubleshooting machinery issues. - Solution: Provide troubleshooting workshops with common scenarios they may face.
6. Limited Knowledge of Safety Shut-Offs - Cadets do not always know emergency shutdown procedures. - Solution: Include emergency shutdown training as a part of their coursework.
7. Slow Response During Machinery Breakdown - Cadets lack experience in handling equipment failures. - Solution: Conduct mock breakdown simulations to teach quick response.
8. Lack of Familiarity with IT Systems - Cadets aren't used to ship's IT and monitoring systems. - Solution: Offer IT systems training, focusing on monitoring tools.
9. No Experience with Hydraulic Systems - Cadets may not know how to handle hydraulic operations. - Solution: Provide practical workshops on hydraulic systems.
10. Difficulty Understanding Ship Stability Dynamics - Cadets struggle with stability calculations. - Solution: Train cadets through stability calculation exercises.

71-80: Administrative and Logistical Issues

1. Difficulty with Document Control - Cadets struggle to manage necessary ship documents. -Solution: Provide documentation management training.
2. Inaccurate Recording of Logbooks - Cadets make errors in logbooks, impacting compliance. -Solution: Offer hands-on training in maintaining accurate log entries.
3. Unfamiliarity with Port Procedures - Cadets are unaware of the paperwork required in ports. - Solution: Conduct training on port procedures and customs paperwork.
4. Lack of Knowledge on Crew Management Tools - Cadets aren't familiar with HR and crew management software. - Solution: Provide crew management software training.
5. Inadequate Knowledge of Inventory Management - Cadets are unfamiliar with tracking inventory onboard. - Solution: Include training modules on inventory management and procurement.
6. Struggle with Maintenance Schedules - Cadets are unable to keep up with planned maintenance schedules. - Solution: Develop structured maintenance planning training for cadets.
7. No Experience with Bunkering Procedures - Cadets lack knowledge of bunkering practices. - Solution: Provide workshops on safe and effective bunkering.
8. Slow Communication During Arrival and Departure - Cadets take time understanding the arrival/departure requirements. - Solution: Provide role-play exercises for arrival and departure scenarios.
9. Inability to Assist in Administrative Tasks - Cadets struggle with admin responsibilities onboard. - Solution: Provide training on administrative tasks, including record-keeping.
10. Lack of Familiarity with Crew Change Procedures - Cadets do not understand how crew changes are organised. - Solution: Include a session on crew change coordination.

81-90: Client and Owner Concerns

1. Inadequate Training Assurance - Owners need assurance about cadet training quality. - Solution: Provide transparency by offering training documentation and certifications.
2. Concerns About Safety - Clients are concerned about the safety awareness of cadets. - Solution: Emphasise comprehensive safety training in all communications.
3. High Replacement Costs - Replacing cadets is costly for owners. - Solution: Conduct in-depth interviews to ensure cadet retention and prevent frequent replacements.
4. Perceived Risk of Underperformance - Owners worry that cadets will not meet their performance standards. - Solution: Offer post-placement support to ensure continued cadet performance.
5. Concerns Over Visa and Documentation - Visa delays cause issues for crewing agencies. - Solution: Handle visa processes as part of your service, minimising delays.
6. High Supervision Costs - Owners worry that cadets require too much supervision. - Solution: Train cadets to be self-reliant and reduce the need for oversight.
7. Inconsistencies in Cadet Skill Levels - Owners are concerned about uneven training quality. - Solution: Standardise your cadet training program with consistent benchmarks.
8. Lack of Trust in New Recruits - Owners are hesitant to trust inexperienced cadets. - Solution: Provide client testimonials and success stories showing the value of well-trained cadets.
9. Concerns About Compliance - Owners worry about cadets understanding and meeting compliance needs. - Solution: Emphasise compliance training and provide evidence of certification.
10. Inefficiency in Handling Clients’ Specific Requirements - Cadets may not meet client-specific requirements. - Solution: Offer customised cadet training modules tailored to client needs.

91-100: Crewing Agency Issues

1. Difficulty Matching Cadets with Specific Requirements - Crewing agencies need specific skills. - Solution: Offer customized skills training based on client needs.
2. Limited Time for Candidate Screening - Agencies struggle to assess cadet quality thoroughly. - Solution: Pre-screen cadets and provide detailed profiles to crewing agencies.
3. High Administrative Workload - Agencies face increased paperwork for onboarding cadets. - Solution: Handle onboarding paperwork as part of your service package.
4. Logistical Issues with Deployment - Coordinating cadet deployment can be challenging. -Solution: Offer logistics support, including transport and documentation.
5. Concerns About Cadet Turnover - Agencies worry about cadets leaving midway through contracts. - Solution: Focus on retention strategies during cadet screening and placement.
6. Inconsistent Quality of Cadets - Agencies are concerned about the inconsistency in cadet skills. - Solution: Offer consistent training standards, and provide proof through evaluations.
7. Ineffective Communication with Cadets - Agencies struggle to stay in touch with cadets once deployed. - Solution: Develop a dedicated communication platform for cadets and crewing agencies.
8. Uncertainty with Cadet Availability - Agencies need reliable cadet availability. - Solution: Provide real-time availability updates to crewing agencies.
9. Difficulty Aligning with Vessel Schedules - Crewing agencies struggle to align cadet placements with vessel schedules. -Solution: Offer flexible placement schedules and manage coordination with vessel operators.
10. Miscommunication During Cadet Placements - There are issues with miscommunication about cadet readiness. - Solution: Develop standardised communication templates and provide regular updates to crewing agencies.