September 2015: Over the last year we have developed a new training course aimed directly at experienced freelance ROV technicians who want to broaden their portfolio of work class ROV skills. The course provides delegates with in-depth knowledge which can be applied to over 150 SMD ROV systems which are in the field.
Traditionally, SMD training has been aimed at corporate customers, who typically send staff to gain a better insight into their newly purchased vehicle. With requests from freelance personnel for training on SMD systems indicating a demand in the market for freelance personnel with the correct skillset we have decided to extend our world class offering beyond this market.
While this course provides an opportunity for freelance ROV pilots to gain expert training direct from the OEM, it will also allow SMD customers to identify potential freelance contractors with the relevant skills and experience required to operate their SMD ROV systems.
The new seven-day course has been carefully developed to provide training on the key elements comprising an SMD WROV system. This includes the operation and maintenance of control and electrical systems, and high voltage and hydraulics circuits across all SMD ROV systems.
Greg Brown is the Head of Training at SMD “We are hearing from the market that in these challenging times, opportunities will arise for technicians with the right skillset. Investing in training now will give two benefits: it will be a positive addition to their CV and put them in a strong position when market demand for technicians picks up.”
The first course was completed last week, with attendees travelling from as far as Australia looking to develop and broaden their skillset. The typical attendee for this course has worked in the offshore business on other ROV systems but has little or limited knowledge of SMD ROV systems.
Feedback from the first course was very positive with all delegates agreeing that they would recommend the course to others. Freelance ROV Supervisor Steve Bostock described the course as “…a valuable course delivered well by a knowledgeable instructor.”, while freelance ROV engineer Daniel Rainbow said “…a lot of what I have learned will help me offshore, minimising down-time.”
Two more seven day courses are already scheduled to start on 19th October 2015 and 30th November 2015 at SMD’s dedicated training facility in Wallsend, Newcastle upon Tyne.
For those interested, information can be found by visiting the LinkedIn group SMD Freelance Technical Training, at www.smd.co.uk or by emailing training@smd.co.uk.
