The Nautical Institute Academy has launched a new Engineering and Bunkering Assessors course designed to help maritime professionals carry out more effective assessments within high-risk shipboard operations.

Developed by industry experts following a successful pilot phase, the course responds to growing industry demand for assessors who can evaluate not only technical compliance, but also behavioural competency, communication and operational performance in engineering, mooring and bunkering environments.

As regulatory expectations, vetting programmes and competency assurance systems continue to evolve, shipping companies are placing increasing emphasis on meaningful onboard assessments that support operational safety, effective decision-making and continuous improvement.

The course is designed for engineers, experienced officers, safety officers, auditors, Technical Superintendents, marine consultants and surveyors involved in onboard assessments and competency assurance.

Combining operational expertise with human factors and assessment methodology, the programme aims to bridge the gap between technical knowledge and the practical realities of assessing personnel in safety-critical operations.

Participants will gain an understanding of:

• behavioural traits within engineering operations
• the differences between audit and assessment
• how to assess safety-critical systems effectively
• structured reporting and constructive feedback techniques
• mentoring and follow-up processes that support improved onboard standards
• the practical application of the ISM Code through case studies and exercises

The course has been jointly developed by experienced maritime professionals with expertise in operational safety, assessment and human factors, using scenario-based learning grounded in real shipboard environments.

“The Engineering and Bunkering Assessor course reflects our commitment to delivering industry-led education that addresses real operational needs,” said Somiyeh Djavanroodi, Head of Academy, The Nautical Institute.

“It equips experienced engineers and assessors with the skills to go beyond compliance, combining technical expertise with an understanding of the human element to carry out meaningful and effective shipboard assessments.”

Participants who successfully complete the course, assignments and final assessment will receive certification from The Nautical Institute.

The first online course will run from 15–19 June 2026.