The demand for qualified officers is on the rise and Teekay clearly recognizes that this means it must continue to focus on attracting, retaining and motivating high caliber personnel.
Teekay’s Junior Officer Trainee Program provides an innovative platform for officers to grow within Teekay.
An innovative opportunity took shape when the objective of attracting officers was combined with the need to increase efficiency on board.
Teekay created an additional Junior Officer position on board its shuttle tankers that is tailored to the shipping industry and provides successful candidates an opportunity to gain onboard experience while assisting in day-to-day administration tasks.
The 12-month program, launched in October 2007, combines shore-based and onboard training, targets candidates who have recently graduated from a maritime academy or have previous seagoing experience with other types of vessels, and provides candidates an entrance into the sophisticated shuttle tanker operation.
“The position of Junior Officer is new within Teekay, and has been created to improve the efficiency of our onboard administration,” said Captain Graham Westgarth, President, Teekay Marine Services. “And, with every increase in the efficiency of our operations, we strengthen our position within the shuttle tanker industry and can continue to deliver safe and high quality service to our customers.”
The training will also serve as a strong foundation for candidates as they grow within the company.
“Providing opportunities for career and skills development is an important component of Teekay’s commitment to its employees,” commented Bernt Karlsen, Head of Teekay Marine HR in Norway. “Joining Teekay as a Junior Officer will open other career opportunities,” he added, “including within both Deck and Engine ranks. In fact, successful Deck applicants will also qualify to receive Basic Dynamic Positioning Training.”
The company is currently training 34 Junior Officers in this program, as part of its broader cadet program. The Junior Officer Trainee Program is based in Grimstad, Norway, and is currently ongoing with the next session beginning in late 2008. The company intends to train an addition 35-40 Junior Officers in the next session.
“A lot of work has gone into bringing this new position to fruition,” he concludes, “and we are excited about this innovative program for many reasons. Along with providing opportunities for career and skills development, we are also demonstrating a long-term commitment to our seafarers, Teekay’s most important asset. “