Student Spotlight: Walter Power (Blended Learning)

Why did you decide to study by Blended Learning at FNC and what did you study?

Whilst completing some short STCW courses at FNC and talking to some of the lecturers I was told about the Blended learning OOW unlimited course. After researching it and making contact with Katrina / Sandra and speaking to some students enrolled, I decided it would suit me to complete the studies for the OOW and also stay in full time work.

What had you previously studied, when and where?

I previously completed studies and short courses to gain my Master 200gt for workboats.

Tell us about the roles you've had at sea...

I started my career in the fishing industry, I gained valuable experience which I believe has helped and shaped my career to where I am today, I moved over to the workboat industry and worked my way up to Workboat Master and worked on some interesting projects around Europe and the Middle East.

The OOW unlimited route in the merchant navy was something I always wanted to complete and move onto larger ships – Blended learning made this possible.

Why was the Merchant Navy your choice of career?

Growing up in a seaside village and watching ships transit the local river I was always curious what life would be like onboard. This career also offered good career progression! 

How did you find studying by Blended Learning? 

To be honest, it took me a while to get into the swing of things. I was given all the information by the Blended Learning team and was fully aware of the commitment required. I was a bit naive at the start, and after nearly giving up the course, I turned a corner and never looked back.

The Blended Learning team are fantastic - they really do get the most out of you.

It does take a lot of self-discipline and research for certain parts of the course (the online Witherby Library is a godsend). The Philip Aston website is also a must for Stability. Overall, the good days definitely outweigh the bad days.

What did you learn that has had the most impact? 

Different modules threw up different tasks, and the more in-depth I studied them, the more techniques I learned that I still use today. Completing the NAEST (O) course had the most impact; seeing multiple errors with bridge equipment and how quickly the bridge team can become disorientated was a real eye-opener. It was also a valuable learning curve in understanding the limitations of certain bridge equipment.

What are you doing now and what are your career ambitions?

I'm still working on workboats but can now cover as second officer when opportunities arise within the company and gain experience on the larger buoy tenders until a full time position becomes available.

Once I'm prepared and have studied what I need too, I'm planning to complete my Chief Mates course through blended learning at FNC in the near future.

What would you say to anyone thinking studying by Blended Learning at FNC?

Go for it! As I was always told from a young age - "If you're not willing to learn no one can help you – If you are determined to learn no one can stop you."

A few words for the team... 

A massive thanks to the Blended Learning team, especially Katrina and Sandra. Also, to Barry and Phil - they know how to get the best out of you and explain everything in great detail. Without all of them, I would never have accomplished it.