The Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship
Maritime Training Journey
From STCW Certification to the High Seas
Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education
The Beginning: STCW Training at Paul Hall Center
Every great maritime career begins with proper training. In June 2007, I embarked on an incredible journey at the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship, part of the prestigious Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland.
Fire Training - The Most Essential Skill
Some get greatness as a graduation gift."
STCW Courses and Certifications
The Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) courses are internationally recognized and essential for maritime careers.
Basic Safety Training (BST)
Personal Survival Techniques
Fire Prevention and Fire Fighting
Elementary First Aid
Personal Safety and Social Responsibilities
Deck Department Training
Bridge Resource Management
Radar Observer Certification
Able Seaman Training
Vessel Security Awareness
Engine Department Training
Basic Engine Room Operations
Oiler/QMED Training
Marine Engineering Fundamentals
Engine Room Resource Management
Steward Department Training
Food Service and Sanitation
Culinary Arts Training
Hospitality Management
Ship's Service Operations
Advanced Safety Courses
Advanced Fire Fighting
Medical First Aid
Crowd and Crisis Management
Ship Security Officer
Specialized Training
Tankerman Certification
HAZMAT Handling
Crane and Rigging Operations
Maritime Security Awareness
My Maritime Adventure
After earning our STCW Certifications and USCG Merchant Mariner Documents in June 2007, I was ready to sail! The Norwegian Cruise Line America (NCLA) was an all-American crew, flagged in the USA, and thanks to "The Jones Act" of 1812, they had to hire Americans.
I started with a short 8-week contract as a Head Waiter, but ship life was intense - Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner, Midnight Snack. No time off, and when I did have time, I just slept!
I started working as a substitute teacher and, as an added bonus, became a working actor on the set of LOST as a body double and stand-in. Having a SAG Union card from 1999 really helped to get paid scale!
About the Seafarers Harry Lundeberg School of Seamanship
The SHLSS, affiliated with the Seafarers International Union of North America (SIU), is a premier vocational school dedicated to preparing students for successful careers as U.S. Merchant Mariners. The campus features:
Why Choose Maritime Training?
A career at sea offers unique opportunities:
Final Thoughts
My journey through STCW training at the Paul Hall Center was transformative. From learning essential safety skills to experiencing the power of a fire hose, every moment prepared me for life at sea and beyond. The training opened doors I never expected - from working on cruise ships to finding opportunities in Hawaii.
Whether you're considering a maritime career or just curious about the training involved, the STCW program provides world-class preparation for one of humanity's oldest professions. The sea calls to those ready to answer!
Contact the Seafarers International Union or visit the Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education in Piney Point, Maryland.