National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) & SeaBot Maritime sign MOU to enhance maritime workforce skills

The National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) and SeaBot Maritime (Ireland) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to collaborate on integrating complex systems with specialised skills for the maritime workforce. This partnership aims to position Ireland as a global leader in advanced maritime training. SeaBot Maritime, based at the National Oceanography Centre in the United Kingdom, is the world’s premier provider of smart remote operations training in Unmanned Surface Vehicle (USV) operations.

The partnership between SeaBot Maritime and NMCI underscores the crucial role human professionals play in harnessing the potential of technological advancements across defence and commercial maritime sectors. Organisations seeking cutting-edge training programmes that equip the maritime workforce with the skills needed to navigate an increasingly complex and technology-driven industry.

🎤 Dr. Paul Hegarty, Head of the National Maritime College of Ireland, commented on the collaboration, stating: “We are thrilled to join forces with SeaBot Maritime to bring these cutting-edge courses to the Irish maritime community. This collaboration highlights our commitment to providing top-tier education that meets the evolving needs of the industry. By combining our expertise with SeaBot’s innovative approach, we aim to empower professionals with the skills and insights necessary to thrive in the era of maritime autonomy.”

🎤 Gordon Meadow, CEO of SeaBot Maritime added, “Our partnership with NMCI represents a significant milestone in our mission to support the maritime industry’s adoption of advanced technologies. By working together, we can ensure that the workforce is prepared to meet the challenges and opportunities of the future.” Course delivery under this partnership is scheduled to commence in the first quarter of 2025, marking an exciting new chapter in maritime education and training in Ireland.

Last week SeaBot Maritime announced that JohnPaul Kearns joined it as Director of strategic partnerships in Ireland. JohnPaul Kearns is expected to bring a breadth of expertise and visionary leadership to SeaBot Maritime, Ireland. With a distinguished career as a Master Mariner, JohnPaul has a proven track record in maritime operations, safety, and training.

🎤 JohnPaul Kearns, Director of strategic partnerships in Ireland of SeaBot Maritime commented, “I am excited to join National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI) & SeaBot Maritime as Seabot’ Director of strategic partnerships in Ireland. I am passionate about ensuring our seafarers are prepared for the future and we want to provide them skills to increase our demand for a skilled workforce in both defence and commercial in Ireland and Europe. The NMCI and Seabot could be host to centre of excellence for novel maritime technologies in Western Europe and Ireland.”

First courses are expected to start at Q1 2025.

📃 Source: National Maritime College of Ireland (NMCI)