The maritime industry in the USA is flourishing. Not just that, it is proving to be a great career path for people. If you are interested in the maritime industry, this could be the dream job you have been searching for. It offers different opportunities. These include adventures, international travel and so much more. The USA has a rich maritime history. It also has a thriving shipping industry. Both of these factors ensure that the merchant navy continues to thrive in the country. Hence, it offers a lot of opportunities for aspiring sailors looking to join the merchant navy. Today, we are offering a detailed guide on how to join the industry with ease.

Understanding the Merchant Navy:

The merchant navy has a high importance in the world of global trade. It helps to transport goods all over the world. It also deals with people. This means the merchant navy provides a way for people to travel on ships to and from different parts of the world. Not only that, the merchant navy also handles sensitive information and cargo.

The merchant navy has a wide range of ships at its disposal. There are cargo ships, tankers, container carriers, and so on. Since they operate on a global scale, their fleet is enormous in size. It spans around all four corners of the world. It helps to connect nations through the numerous maritime trade routes it has.

Qualifications and Eligibility:

It’s not just fun and games when you’re trying to join the merchant navy. You have to have a certain set of qualifications to be able to join the industry successfully. Alongside general qualifications, there are job specific requirements as well. Different roles in the industry require different pre-requisite skills.

Educational qualifications:

If you’re chasing after an entry level position in the maritime industry, you really don’t need much in this department. A highschool diploma should suit you just fine. However, it’s worth noting that you’ll be starting from rock bottom. If candidates want to achieve officer-level positions, they’re probably going to have to complete a degree program in maritime studies.

Physical requirements: 

It’s also worth noting that you can’t just be all brains and no brawns. You need to have a certain physique to be able to make the cut in this industry. Life at sea can be very physically demanding. This is why all candidates are screened and have to undergo several physical examinations. This separates the cream of the crop from the rest.

Age requirements:

This one is a no brainer. As with every job out there, there are minimum age requirements to be able to join the industry. When it comes to the merchant navy, you’re going to have to be at least 17 or 18 years old. The age requirements vary between positions, though this is a minimum requirement for entering the industry itself. 

Language proficiency:

When it comes to language proficiency, there are certain requirements that candidates are going to have to fulfill. Having a certain level of mastery over the English language is absolutely vital. You can’t just treat it like a fluke either. Candidates often have to prove their level of proficiency via standardized tests. These tests include the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).

Training and Certification:

Now that you’ve understood the general requirements, it’s time to move on to training and certification. This is a whole new beast. There are different institutions that provide you with different avenues to join the industry. All in all, it’s imperative that you go through with these as these will help you kickstart your career in the merchant navy. 

Maritime Education Institutes:

Indonesia has no shortage of maritime education institutes. If you’re looking for a place to learn the ropes, they have you covered. These institutes offer a plethora of courses that train you for almost every job prospect in the merchant navy. These courses are specifically tailored to meet  the needs of aspiring seafarers. 

These institutes provide all manner of knowledge and training. Whether you’re looking for practical training or theoretical knowledge, these institutes will have your back. It’s all about doing your research and selecting the right courses and institute. As long as you do your homework, you should be well on your way to a successful career in the merchant navy.

Basic safety training:

Basic safety training is essential for a career in the merchant navy. While on the sea, there are a plethora of problems that you might end up facing. Everything from being stranded at sea to putting out fires on your vessels. This training will ensure that you know exactly what to do if you’re ever faced by such a situation.

STCW certification:

This stands for the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping. This convention sets the standards for all international trade in the maritime industry. It’s mandatory for all aspiring candidates to obtain a certification. It allows them to be trained under the policies required for them to follow in the merchant navy.

Cadetship programs:

These programs are offered by a lot of shipping companies. If you’re an aspiring officer and are in need of guidance, searching for such a program will be your best bet. This will provide you with some structured training and a way forward. It also provides you with some must-needed mentorship and sea-going experience.

Outro:

As you can tell, joining the merchant navy in the USA is a worthwhile career to pursue. However, as we’ve already mentioned, it’s not as easy as you might think. Still, as long as you follow the guidelines mentioned above, you should be set to become the next big thing in the merchant navy.

You’ll need to undergo rigorous training, but it’ll all be worth it in the long run. The merchant navy can set you up for a long and successful career. The USA is constantly working on strengthening its maritime sector. As history suggests, the merchant navy has always been and will always be a cornerstone of the nation’s heritage.