The use of high-fidelity simulators for training maritime pilots

The maritime industry is currently undergoing rapid, global change. It is anticipated that due to resource demand, international sea trade will increase in the coming years. Maritime pilots operate at the land-sea interface and are fundamental to an efficient shipping industry. However with an aging workforce, the available pool of suitably trained personnel is expected to dramatically decline over the next decade. As with other highly-skilled occupations (e.g., aviation pilots, surgical teams), simulator-based training is a viable alternative to traditional learning methods to expedite maritime pilot education. Additional benefits to simulator-based training include the acquisition of knowledge and skills in a risk-free environment, particularly when conducted in a high-fidelity simulator. Despite these perceived benefits, little empirical evidence is available pertaining to the utility of simulator-based training of maritime pilots. Accordingly, this paper will outline the benefits to utilizing simulator-based training for maritime pilots, and will provide an illustrative example of training and research conducted at the Fremantle Maritime Simulation Centre.