At the Maritime Training Academy (MTA), we love celebrating our students’ success and sharing their stories with the world. One such story is that of Barbara, a dedicated student who recently completed her Port State Control Certificate. In this Q&A, Barbara shares what motivated her to study the course, the challenges she faced, and her advice to those considering a similar path.

 

1. What is your current role and how did you progress to it? 

My current role at The Bahamas Maritime Authority (BMA) is Technical Assistant in the Inspections and Surveys Department. I began my journey in the Registration Department and spent 7 years there but was always really keen to know more about the Technical Department, where I was transferred to in 2011.

 

2. Why did you choose to do the Port State Control Certificate?

I used to enter the Port State Control Inspection reports in our system, recording the report for the respective vessel and the findings of the PSC inspection. In my thirst to learn, I asked questions, and my boss suggested that I might wish to have a look at doing some training which was PSC related. After looking at several courses, I decided on the Port State Control Certificate course offered by the Maritime Training Academy.

 

3. What were your course highlights?

• Receiving the email messages, with feedback from the course tutor, from the Student Liaison Administrator, who was always very encouraging!
• Receiving grades which made me feel such a sense of accomplishment
• Completing the assignments was very rewarding

 

4. What were your biggest challenges studying and how did you overcome these?

My biggest challenges were personal, family occurrences which interfered with my concentration and focus, as well as my lack of self confidence. I knew if I did not complete the course, I would end up feeling like a failure, and this pushed me to keep going with my studies. I was able to keep going thanks to the very kind and the empathetic team who encouraged me throughout the course.

 

5. How do you think this course will benefit you and your company? 

Equipped with my newly acquired learning, I have grown in confidence and have become more involved with Port State related matters at work. As a result, my department and the company benefits from me being able to assist in this area of work.

 

6. What advice would you give to someone thinking of studying?

My advice to anyone who may be thinking of studying is simply to say, go for it!
You will not regret it! There is an amazing team at the Maritime Training Academy, who will assist you every step of the way, they are professionals who are committed to seeing you succeed. They did it for me and I am confident they will do it for anyone who wishes to embark on any of the courses that are offered.

 

We’re incredibly proud of Barbara’s achievements and grateful for her insight into what it’s like to study at the Maritime Training Academy. Her determination and resilience are an inspiration to anyone looking to advance their maritime career.

Congratulations again, Barbara, on passing the Port State Control Course—we wish you all the best in your career!

If you would like to enhance your maritime career – find a course that’s right for you or contact our team to find out more.