IDPOA’s Training Scheme Initiative Sean Total Views: 152 September 10, 2009 The International DP Operators Association (IDPOA) has been hard at work on a new program to aid self funded DPO’s gain the sea time needed for an unlimited DP license. IDPOA believes there is currently a bottleneck developing within the Dynamic Positioning (DP) Operators training / certification scheme. Trainees are reportedly having difficulty fulfilling the Phase-2 (30 day seatime) requirement of the training scheme.  This is verified by the following sources: Individuals .  There is an increase in the number of self-funded trainees seeking advice from the Nautical Institute (NI), International Dynamic Positioning Operators Association (IDPOA), and from training providers on prospective employment for the Phase 2 period of the training scheme. Training Providers.   An increasing number of training providers have reported to the NI a significant drop off in the numbers of trainees seeking Simulator/Advanced courses compared with those taking the Induction/Basic. This issue has been recognized by the DP- Training Executive Group (DP-TEG). Employers & Crewing Agencies.   Employers in all DP industry sectors have indicated difficulty in accessing sufficient numbers of suitably qualified DPO’s. The International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) has spoken out strongly on the general issue and of a need to assist it’s members in, “Tackling the skills shortage”. Certifying Authority.   The NI has indicated a lag between the number of DP logbooks issued, compared to the number of DPO certificates ultimately issued. Contracting Government.   India’s DG of Shipping recently reported their view that there are insufficient numbers of Indian DPO’s coming through to service the Indian sector. At a meeting of the NI and DGS, there was concern voiced at a perceived, “blockage in the system”. Though it was recognized that this was also due to the small number of accr