The Professional Yachting Association (PYA) has spearheaded the development of a series of courses to deliver fit-for-purpose AV/IT training, aligned with real on-board needs. The courses will be provided through IAMI GUEST Accredited training providers.

Yacht agents and captains are reporting a growing demand for crew with electrical technical officer (ETO) certification. However, while an ETO Certificate of Competency is a degree-level qualification focused primarily on high-voltage electrical systems, the operational reality on board many yachts tells a different story.

“What the industry increasingly requires is not advanced electrical expertise, but crew with a practical understanding of the audio-visual and Information Technology systems commonly found on modern yachts – systems that underpin guest experience, on-board operations and cyber security,” says Christophe Bourillon, CEO at the PYA. “At present, no STCW-mandated training, including at ETO level, adequately addresses this critical skills gap.”

In response, the PYA instigated an industry-led initiative to develop fit-for-purpose AV/IT training aligned with real on-board needs. The programme has been developed in collaboration with key stakeholders across the sector, including AV/IT equipment manufacturers, installation and maintenance specialists, and MCA-certified training providers.

The new courses are designed to enhance crew competence, reduce reliance on costly shoreside interventions and improve career progression opportunities for yacht crew at all levels.

 Structured training at three levels
“Training will be delivered and assessed across three distinct levels, exclusively through IAMI GUEST Accredited Training Providers,” says Joey Meen, Director of IAMI GUEST Program. “Cyber security is embedded as a core component of Levels 1 and 2. Initially, all courses will be delivered and assessed in English.”

AV Level 1 & IT Level 1 – Awareness for all crew
Level 1 is suitable for all crewmembers working across all on-board departments, including those new to the industry. The course provides a foundational understanding of typical AV/IT systems found on board superyachts, enabling safe operation and effective communication with guests when using entertainment and connectivity systems.

AV Level 2 & IT Level 2 – Designated AV/IT responsible crew
Level 2 is aimed at crew members who wish to become the designated on-board point of responsibility for AV/IT systems. The course covers common technical terminology and acronyms, the types of data circulating within on-board networks, and the critical interface between internal yacht systems and external networks.

Training combines classroom learning with hands-on experience using representative AV/IT equipment. A key outcome is the ability to accurately diagnose and communicate fault symptoms to shoreside technical support and to implement basic corrective actions – reducing downtime and avoiding unnecessary specialist call-outs.

Entry to Level 2 requires one or more of the following:

• Successful completion of Level 1
• Relevant academic qualifications
• Demonstrable prior experience in a related field
• Satisfactory assessment of knowledge and capability

Level 3 – Senior AV/IT expertise for new builds and refits
Level 3 is designed for senior crew with several years of practical on-board AV/IT experience. This advanced level focuses on applying operational expertise to new build and refit projects, ensuring that AV/IT systems are specified, installed and integrated with a clear understanding of real-world operational requirements.

For more information please contact IAMI GUEST Program at guest@iami.org.uk or PYA at info@pya.org

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