Training

When applied to research motorboat operations, the subject of training encompasses a broad area. The links below are intended to assist NOAA field activities in deciphering what training is available and which training is appropriate for their boat operators and crews.

Required Training for Small Boat Operators:

Class A, I, and II (NSBSPM 4.03a):

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Skills and Seamanship (BS&S) course or equivalent.
NOAA Component Course
Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS, NSBSPM Appendix F).
- Class A, I
- Class II
Current CPR and First Aid (NSBSPM 4.06).

Class III and SRV (NSBSPM 4.03b):

Appropriate USCG license or active Uniformed Service Officer of the Deck (OOD)
NOAA Component Course
Personnel Qualification Standards (PQS) and Advanced/Continuing Education
Current CPR and First Aid (NSBSPM 4.06).

U.S. Coast Guard Auxiliary Boating Skills and Seamanship (BS&S) - approved equivalent courses

NOAA Commissioned Corps – Basic Officer Training Class (4 Months)
Any USCG Deck License
Federal Law Enforcement Small Boat Training – IBOT, MLETP or BOAT
STCW Fast Rescue Boat (FRB) AND
- US Merchant Marine Able-Bodied Seaman rating OR
- A 2 days minimum, in person, NASBLA approved course
Department Of Interior (3-5 days) Motorboat Operator Certification Course (DOI-MOCC)
Boatwise - Course for NOAA Operators - ask Boatwise about the course, it is not listed on their site
Chapman Powerboat Certification – Basic Power Boating (5 days)
Clatsop Community College/MERTS (4 days)
Westlawn Institute of Marine Technology

NOAA Inspection and Troubleshooting Course

The previously offered Inspection and Troubleshooting Course will be revamped and improved based on past attendees’ feedback. The Small Boat Program Coordinator will send out a notice when a new course is developed and ready.

Other useful training information and links:
- Skill-based Operator Certification - Ideas for practical skills demonstration and hands-on training requirements.
- Planning Near Shore or Surf Zone Operations
- Trim and Stability AwarenessThis link is critical to safe research motorboat operations and is intended to highlight one of the greatest risks in conducting research operations from small boats: handling or carrying (aka "shipping") heavy weights on small boats. A basic knowledge of stability is critical for the small boat operator to recognize and avoid operations which could represent unacceptable risk.
- STCW - Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for Seafarers
- STCW Medical Training Standards
- USCG Licensing Information (Links to USCG Site)
- ABYC Training Courses
- Specialty Operator Training - A listing of vendors offering merchant mariner level training courses including; GMDSS, High Speed Conning, RADAR, ARPA, even a marine technician certification program.