Fleet Management Partners with Dalian Maritime University to Strengthen Seafarer Training

‍Fleet Management and Dalian Maritime University (DMU) have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to strengthen training for seafarers in China.

The partnership is expected to benefit more than 3,000 Fleet Management seafarers from the People’s Republic of China, helping them build the skills needed to meet changing industry requirements.

DMU brings extensive experience in maritime education, research and practical training. Its programmes reflect current International Maritime Organization conventions and regulations, including the revised Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) Convention.

The university also uses high-fidelity ship manoeuvring simulators to complement classroom learning. By recreating hundreds of ports and challenging operating conditions, seafarers can practise responding to complex scenarios before undertaking voyages around the world.

The maritime industry is entering a period of significant change. New propulsion technologies, alternative fuels, digital systems and evolving regulations are reshaping the skills required onboard modern vessels. As these changes accelerate, the ability to continuously develop and upskill seafarers will become increasingly important.

"The challenge facing shipping today is not simply access to training. It is access to high-quality training that keeps pace with the industry itself,"

said Capt. Soma Nair, Executive Director, Fleet Personnel Department, addressing the signing ceremony. 

He thanked the leadership team at Dalian Maritime University for their partnership and trust, and reaffirmed that Fleet Management looks forward to working together to create new opportunities for Chinese seafarers to learn, develop and succeed.

The agreement reflects Fleet Management's long-term commitment to talent development. More than 70% of the company's senior leadership team have seafaring backgrounds, whilst many Masters, Chief Engineers and shore-based leaders began their careers as cadets before progressing through the organisation. The company sees continuous learning and career development as essential to preparing the next generation of maritime professionals.

Through the partnership, Fleet Management aims to create clearer pathways from maritime education to seafaring careers, whilst encouraging lifelong learning through continuous training, certification and professional development. The collaboration is expected to help strengthen qualification standards and create new opportunities for Chinese seafarers throughout their careers.