VT Flagship and the Royal National Lifeboat Institution (RNLI) are celebrating as they sign a four-year contract to train RNLI lifeboat technicians.

The new contract, which was signed yesterday (16 July 2008), will see VT Flagship design and deliver a nationwide systems engineering training programme for 62 RNLI technicians who maintain the RNLI’s lifeboats.

VT Flagship will train the technicians to become highly skilled maritime system engineers, capable of maintaining the most advanced vessel in the RNLI fleet – the Tamar class all-weather lifeboat. Hosting new technology, the vessel has a variety of features including the computerised Systems and Information Management System (SIMS) that enables crew to control many of the lifeboat’s functions remotely from their seats.

VT Flagship's Head of Civil Maritime Training, Gerry Thwaites said; “We are proud to announce this exciting new contract with the RNLI, which follows on from the success of apprentice, technician and graduate training programmes we have developed and delivered for a range of civilian companies, including Network Rail and, British Energy

“Our aim is to create, through partnership with the RNLI, a sustainable, comprehensive and adaptable training programme, to develop their technicians into highly skilled system engineers, enhancing the charity’s overall capability.

"This is the first time we have worked with the RNLI and we have specifically designed the programme to meet their requirements. Through us, they will have use of the Royal Navy’s facilities and expertise, providing an excellent training solution. We look forward to being part of this new and innovative project, which makes best use of our country’s maritime resources.”

As part of the training, the RNLI’s technicians will work towards an NVQ Level 3 in Engineering Maintenance, with further opportunities to progress to NVQ Level 4 in Engineering Management.  In addition, a number of the technicians will also be trained as NVQ Assessors, which will allow the RNLI to undertake its own work-based assessments when supported by VT Flagship Internal Verifiers.

A blended learning solution will be provided, combining distance learning, hands-on and work-based training, delivered at VT Flagship’s Engineering Academy, HMS Sultan and throughout the UK and Ireland at RNLI lifeboat stations. The scheme will be partly residential at HMS Sultan, Gosport.

Through distance learning, the RNLI’s technicians will be able to work independently using a successful interactive multi-media programme already developed by VT Flagship for their training partner, the Royal Navy. Using animation and 3D graphics tailored specifically to the RNLI’s needs, they will expand and enhance their knowledge of propulsion, electrical, auxiliary systems and maintenance.

Adds Liam McKenna, RNLI Principal Relief Fleet Manager; “We are very excited about this new training initiative for our technicians. The RNLI is well known for the thorough training it provides for its volunteer lifeboat crew members, but it also strives to provide the very best training for its staff. By working closely with VT Flagship, we will be able to provide our technicians with a comprehensive, bespoke training package that will enhance their career development, and will also benefit the charity as a whole.

“VT Flagship’s naval training expertise will help us to equip our technical staff with the specialist skills they need to work on the latest RNLI lifeboats and continue their crucial role of helping the charity’s volunteer crews to save lives at sea."