Dynamic Positioning Operators - Licensed versus Non-Licensed

[Achiever]

I agree with Capt. Lee completely. I have my own axe to grind on the subject, however. I have worked with many DPO's over the years and, by far, the best seem to always be the hawsepipers. The reason? They have actual, hands-on, boat handling experience. They understand the way a vessel will react to thrust input, because they have done it. No amount of schooling or certifications is going to convey that. The only true teacher is experience. Can a noob, fresh off the street learn DP? Eventually, depending on the level of their innate intelligence. But they will never have the true insight that someone with an experienced, hands-on marine background can offer. It's apples and oranges here, gentlemen. As for ringknockers, I laugh when I hear one of them bragging about all of their experience sailing to foreign ports and then when introduced to DP or actual true shiphandling, not having a clue. There are, of course, those who have both. For those fortunate few, the future is golden. You will always have a mix out there, and you'll have to try to find the best person you can get your hands on.

[ben3m]

I also found this thread which doesn't make me feel good about my opportunity offshore.

[dpcommando]

What happened to DPOJean. Did you fall off the face of the earth? It is round you know!

[NAVYLADY]

Im just wanting to get a feel for what everyones thoughts are on having*a Licensed Person or a Non-Licensed Person running the DP System, being that some companies make it mandatory for all DP Personnel to have a license and others do not.


I have worked with both and have seen that either can do a superb job.


Lets here everyones thoughts.

Hi,

I am a former Navy sailor, I was a Operation Specialist e-5 and my job was to assist in navigating the ship by plotting and reporting to the captain ships heading, speed, and true wind. I was also in charge of the lookouts and ensuring we moor correctly. I served seven years on Destroyers while navigating I am trying to become a DPO. I live in louisiana and really willing to get back in that field. I need help in where do i start. I love going out to sea and was Honorably discharged from the United States Navy. I can be reached at liltwurker231@aol.com with any helpful info. Thanks guys. <!-- / message -->

[Jeffrox]

Navylady, Search some of the other threads on this forum, lots and lots of advice on getting started. In addition to seeking DPO quals, you should be considering getting AB and a Mates license with that Navy OS time.

[Flyer]

Hey John, I'm a new member here and I see that you live in Morro Bay. I live next door in Los Osos. When you get back from New York, perhaps we could meet for lunch or something? I'd like to discuss the DPO thing with you and how I might shift over from the towing industry. I have read most of the threads on here and it doesn't seem very easy to get in. It would also be nice to know another fellow mariner in the neighborhood. Shoot me an email or a PM when you have time. Thanks.

Paul Schuyler