The following is text of a news release from MITAGS-PMI:
(LINTHICUM HEIGHTS, Md.) — MITAGS-PMI East Coast campus has expanded its operational research, tractor-tug simulation and escort capabilities with the addition of two new assist tug bridges, and has expanded its West Coast capabilities with the recent acquisition of Fremont’s India Tango Marine Fire Fighting School.
With this increased East Coast capacity, MITAGS-PMI can now integrate up to six tug/ship bridges in one simulation exercise. “The ASD tugs integrated with the full-mission simulators allow pilots, ship masters and tug operators to train in the same scenario. This greatly enhances the realism and training related to tug placement/control, communications, and operational techniques. The use of two tug bridges, integrated with the full-mission bridge, has become a regular feature of operational research projects,” said Glen Paine, executive director.
Escort training has been an important curriculum at the West Coast campus. The school expects demand for this training to grow on the East Coast as ultra-large container vessels (ULCV) establish regular service for the East Coast ports. This will help the ship’s crew, pilots, and tug masters to better understand the capabilities and “best practices” of today’s escort systems.
The MITAGS-PMI West Coast campus has also expanded with the India Tango Marine Fire Fighting School. The campus is offering complete STCW courses and revalidation, license renewal, and Subchapter M training requirements. Additionally, a new engineering apprenticeship program is scheduled to be rolled out later this year.
MITAGS-PMI is a nonprofit vocational training center for individuals seeking to enter the maritime profession and for professional mariners seeking to advance their careers. With campuses in Baltimore and Seattle, it offers maritime training, pilot programs, ship simulation and operational research, providing customized solutions for both individual companies and members of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots. To learn more, visit www.mitags-pmi.org.
