Posted: November 1, 2024
For centuries, Cork has been a safe harbour from storms, rough seas, and pirates. However, in 2024, the concept of a safe harbour has evolved. This was evident on Friday during the
MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge, where the focus shifted to defending Ireland’s harbours and ports against cyber threats. The event featured a cyber attack
simulation on a virtualised maritime port, hosted in MTU’s new Cyber Security Lab and conducted on its state-of-the-art cyber range infrastructure.
The simulation, designed by Airbus, mirrored a real-world cyber attack, paralysing a port’s IT systems and a ship at its entrance, effectively blocking all traffic. Teams from the Irish Naval
Service, National Maritime College, MTU, Cyber Innovate, and WorldSkills Ireland National Champions competed to identify the cyber attack’s entry points, regain control of the vessel,
and assist Europol in arresting the hacker group’s leader.
The Need for Maritime Cybersecurity Skills Irish ports are vital hubs for shipping and maritime operations, making skills in maritime cybersecurity essential to future-proof Ireland’s infrastructure. The simulated cyber attack provided an invaluable opportunity to build real-world, applicable skills to address these growing threats.
MTU Leading the Way in Cybersecurity Training
Photo: Pauline Dennigan
The MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge was held in MTU’s new Cyber Security Lab, which was visited last week by Tánaiste Micheál Martin as part of the Ireland-Wales
Forum 2024. Six teams competed, each featuring MTU staff, researchers, and students.
“Hosting the MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge in our new Cyber Security Lab showcased the strength of our programmes and the exceptional talent emerging from Cork,”
said Dr. Donna O’Shea, Chair of Cybersecurity at Munster Technological University (MTU).
As a leader in cybersecurity education, MTU runs initiatives such as Cyber Skills, Cyber Explore, and the €7M Cyber Innovate project. Cork’s reputation as Ireland’s cyber security
hub is bolstered by MTU’s graduates, a key reason why many national and international companies have established a presence in the region.
MTU also features the Cyber Range, a state-of-the-art platform unique in Ireland, which enables simulated cyber-attacks on virtual organisations. “At MTU, we are dedicated to
advancing cyber security through cutting-edge education and research.” said Dr. George O’Mahony from MTU “This cutting-edge facility provides invaluable training for students,
researchers, and industry professionals, allowing them to build critical skills without risking real-world damage or outages.”
Dr. O’Mahony used the Cyber Range to train and mentor the Irish cybersecurity team that won Gold at the WorldSkills Global Skills Challenge 2024.
Event Highlights
The MTU Smart Maritime Cybersecurity Challenge provided a powerful demonstration of the importance of cybersecurity in Ireland’s maritime sector.
Prize Winner Details
The winning team comprised a mixture of Naval service, MTU student, NMCI staff and Cyber Innovate scholars.
Stephanie Wallace Chavanne, Harry Dunne, Oskar Wolak, George O’Mahony, Tim McSweeney, Wiktor Owczarek and David Dennehy
The Maritime Challenge is part of an event in the lead up to the Smart Maritime & Offshore Wind Event on the 11th of November at the National Maritime College of Ireland in Cork.
The event will start at 9:30am. https://www.cyberskills.ie/explore/events/join-us-at-thesmart-maritime–offshore-wind-event-on-the-11th-ofnovember.html
Contact Details:
Catherine Wilson is the media contact for this press release
Mobile: +353 87 693 2561
Email: Catherine.Wilson@MTU.ie
Photographs with captions are located here:
Photographer: Barry O’Sullivan
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1LDFFx-6sAif_Ou-xPzvMenWZr3iYeAk2
News coverage on gold medal win
https://www.mtu.ie/news/worldskills-global-skills-challenge-2024/
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Posted: August 13, 2024
Register today for our Master of Science in Maritime Operations in conjunction with CILT Mobility & Supply Chain Skillnet. This programme is designed for seafarers transitioning to shore-based roles, as well as non-maritime professionals seeking to upskill and pursue opportunities within the port and offshore sectors. Our Master of Science in Maritime Operations offers a comprehensive 18 month programme designed to equip participants with the skills and knowledge for decision making and leadership in maritime operations. This programme will prioritize continuous professional development, integrating skill training in leadership, analytical thinking, decision- making, negotiation and business acumen.
The Master of Science in Maritime Operations will adopt a blended delivery approach, predominantly online, accompanied by in person tutorials. The programme is structured over three semesters, encompassing core and elective modules essential to maritime operations. The final semester includes a Maritime Operations Research Dissertation on a relevant topic. This programme is offered at a subsidised cost of €4500 reduced from €8500. Candidates holding a Level 8 Major Award, in Nautical Science, Engineering or equivalent will be eligible for this programme. Those with a Level 7 Major Award combined with a Master Unlimited or Chief Engineer Unlimited CoC can enter directly. Additionally, candidates with other qualifications and relevant experience will be considered through a Recognition of Prior Learning evaluation, which may include an interview.
The deadline for registration is the 4th of September 2024.
Register here today.
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Posted: November 13, 2023
As a rapidly evolving company, NMCI Training Services (NMCITS) are currently in the process of a team expansion and are seeking candidates for the following positions.
We are currently seeking a dynamic and experienced individual to join our team as a Full-Time Fire Fighting Instructor. Additionally, we are looking for a Part-Time Administrator to support our administrative functions. Be part of a team dedicated to shaping the future of maritime safety education. Apply today!
Part- Time Administrator.
Description of the Position
To undertake the administration role for the NMCITS team on a part-time basis, to liaise with other administration personnel as required and to provide support to the senior staff.
Reporting to the Operations Manager of NMCI Training Services, the Administrator is a member of the core NMCITS Team providing administration.
Principal Tasks:
- Supporting the existing administration team.
- As an operations office, ensure that phone communications are treated as a priority and all phone messages answered promptly.
- Maintain and develop corporate image and reputation and protect and develop the NMCI Training Services brand.
- Handling incoming telephone call as required and dealing with calls relating to group short courses, bespoke courses.
- Liaising with instructors to support the planning and delivery of all commercial courses.
- Booking areas and facilities required to carry out courses.
- Liaising with catering staff & process canteen function forms.
- Compile course packs and ensure they are closed off and filed correctly.
Essential to the role:
- Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
- Demonstrable Previous Experience in a similar role.
Salary: DOE
Submit CV and a Cover Letter to: careers@nmci.ie
Fire Fighting Instructor (Full-time)
Reporting to: The Operations Manager.
Principal Tasks.
- Deliver Fire and Emergency Response training.
- To undertake instructional duties on assigned classes as deemed appropriate by management in both lecture and practical sessions, both at the NMCI and other locations as the management may from time to time reasonably require (e.g., at client’s premises).
- To ensure existing courses are reviewed & updated as necessary and assist in the development of new courses to meet client’s needs.
- To ensure that safety standards for both staff and learners are always adhered to.
- Maintaining appropriate records and making available information as required by management.
- Participating in the development, implementation, and maintenance of quality assurance.
- To liaise with support staff responsible for the delivery of training courses or exercises.
- Work as part of a team to ensure consistent standards of training are maintained.
- To comply with the procedures, staff notices, and any other communications as issued by management.
- To attend staff development training courses, in-house and external, as determined by line management.
Requirements
Essential:
- Operational experience in the Fire Service, or related sector.
- BA Instructors Course.
- Fire Fighting background.
- Excellent planning, organisational and communication skills.
Desirable:
- Clean full driving licence.
- Proficient in Microsoft Office suite.
Salary: DOE
Submit CV and a Cover Letter to: careers@nmci.ie
Closing date for applications is midnight on 4.12.2023.
NMCI Training Services, where passion meets profession.
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Posted: May 4, 2022
The Moorings and Sunsail are one of the largest global charter companies with bases across the world. They provide the very best sailing holidays, giving customers amazing experiences on the water. From complete beginners to experienced sailors they have something to suit everybody, from courses at their sailing schools to flotilla charters. Their first-class fleet of yachts, dozens of destinations and talented and experienced staff keep their customers coming back year after year.
The Moorings and Sunsail are looking for talented and enthusiastic staff to join their teams for seasonal roles in the Mediterranean with options for full time employment or winter opportunities as well.
Flotilla Technicians and Base Technicians – with onboard and shore based roles available this role will revolve around maintaining the fleet of yachts. This is a great role if you are confident with basic yacht repairs including diesel engines, outboards, marine plumbing and being part of a strong and experienced team!
Bareboat Skippers andBareboat Skippers – If you have your RYA Yachtmaster Coastal qualification and are looking for your next role on board you may be perfect for one of the Skipper roles. You will be guiding the guest boats through their trip and ensuring everyone is safe and happy.
Flotilla Hosts – Punch parties, group meals and dinghy races! If you are organised, proactive and love spending time with people then this is a great chance to build your miles and do what you love most, sailing, and meeting new people!
Why not check out The Moorings and Sunsail Recruitment Video. This will give you a better background into the Moorings and Sunsail companies, what they do, the role you have applied for and what they look for in our staff!
To apply or learn more, visit the link highlighted below:
Yachts | Careers (travelopia.com)
You can also contact the Recruitment Team by emailing yachts.recruitment@thlmarine.com
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Posted: March 15, 2022
Meet Josh, the newest member of our instructor team. Josh is part of the SEFtec NMCI Offshore (SNO) two year Instructor Training Programme. Beginning his career at the NMCI as a technician and trainee instructor Josh recently completed the two year programme to become an instructor at the NMCI. We chatted with Josh to hear more about his background, interests and future plans.
Hi Josh, so tell us a little about yourself?
Hello, my name is Josh and I am an instructor with SEFtec NMCI Offshore DAC.
Growing up I worked in outdoor activity centres during my Summer holidays. I loved the multi-activity courses which included water sports such as sailing, kayaking, and coasteering to name a few. I was really lucky to have such an enjoyable job at a young age – and it gave me great confidence in leadership and instruction. During my time in college, I was a safety officer and later captain of CIT’s kayaking club. I learned loads about management as well as general risk assessments regarding water safety. After college, I spent some time working for a fire safety company that specialises in the maritime industry. This gave me great exposure to various vessels, their fire suppression systems, and firefighting equipment on board.
What attracted you to the role of trainee instructor/technician initially?
When introduced to the role of Trainee Instructor/Technician, I was immediately attracted to the similarities it had with my previous instructor role. Each day is different with new learners across various training set-ups. I was especially excited to work in the environmental pool and it’s still my favourite ‘classroom’ in the NMCI. Working all 4 seasons as a water-based instructor can be almost unheard of in Ireland, so this was an exciting concept.
Tell us about your role and what it entails?
When I first joined the team, I was trained into the role of Technician. It was my job to prepare any equipment needed for the courses. This included prepping boats for the pool, equipment for the fire yard, and general organisation of all PPE across all the courses. I found this period in the company beneficial in gaining a better understanding of how the equipment operates. This role also included assisting in the background of courses – lighting fires, capsizing rafts, and launching lifeboats.
1 year later I became a Trainee Instructor. I trained a new colleague into the Technician role, allowing me to spend more time in the classroom learning the courses. I participated in every course we offer as a learner, which I thoroughly enjoyed. I then became a PADI Open Water Diver and later received a National Pool Lifeguard Qualification. I could now participate in the pool as a safety swimmer/diver – a position I was looking forward to since the day I started! Towards the end of my 24-month program, I completed my OPITO Assessors, Train the Trainer, and HUET Instructor course. This is the part of the job that blows my friend’s minds!! I love working in the ‘HUET’ and I’m continuing to learn more with each course I am part of.
What is your favourite part about working with SEFtec Group?
My favourite part about working with SEFtec Group is the dynamic and varied working environment. No one day is the same. I work alongside seasoned mariners and firefighters regularly. I have the opportunity to train with emergency services like the Irish Coast Guard Helicopter crews each month. I have just returned from training in the UK for an exciting project in the future. I continue to expand my knowledge with every course I am a part of, every person I meet, and every location I visit. Working with SEFtec Group has opened my eyes to an amazing industry with inspiring people working within it. I look forward to more projects in the future, especially overseas.
How will you continue to develop your skills in 2022?
When I first joined the company, I was told “every day is a school day here”.
This is absolutely true. Each day my skills and knowledge improve. Every course brings its challenges and rewards and I learn so much from each one. To enhance my skills further, I plan on focusing on the Global Wind Organisation side of training more this year. I also look forward to improving my HUET skills with more time inside the unit. It’s also an exciting time for OPITO as they move towards the sustainable energy section. I look forward to being part of this transition in the future. As part of my continuous development, I will be doing Enclosed Spaces, Working at Heights, and Manual Handling instructorships in 2022 also.
Thanks Josh, we’re looking forward to seeing all that you achieve in your career!
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