A tonne of certificates does not equate to a good maritime trainer. Nor is a Quality Management System any guarantee that a training institution won’t have bad instructors. It all comes down to the individual – his knowledge and experience as much as his personal traits and general outlook in life. Twelve things, in my view, characterise the ideal trainer:
Loves teaching others, especially the younger generation
Has ample sea experience (at least 10-15 years in total)
Has mastery of the subject being taught
Keeps up to date with marine technology and industry trends
Has unshakeable integrity
Can communicate clearly and effectively
Is self-confident without being arrogant
Is authoritative but not dictatorial
Pays attention to his grooming
Is patient with students
Treats students with respect and civility
Is wise enough to know that he does not know everything
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