As a marine engineer, one of the most common questions asked is whether or not it is necessary to work on ships. The truth is, while working on ships can give you an opportunity to experience the practical side of things, it is not necessarily a must-do.
There are several aspects of a marine engineer’s job, ranging from designing and testing equipment to providing technical support and troubleshooting issues. The job of a marine engineer is, therefore, not limited to just working on ships. Instead, a marine engineer is responsible for designing, building, and maintaining various marine structures, including boats, ships, submarines, and offshore structures.
Being a marine engineer requires an individual to have a deep understanding of the functioning of marine engines, ship systems, and machinery. As such, having practical experience working on ships can indeed be useful in gaining a deeper understanding of the equipment and machinery.
However, there are other ways to gain this understanding without actually working on ships. Marine engineers can acquire this knowledge through the use of simulators that simulate various marine systems and machinery accurately. Simulators provide practical experience without the need for physical work on ships, making them an excellent alternative to onboard work.
Another aspect to consider is the type of work you prefer to do. Some marine engineers prefer working on design and development of new equipment, while others prefer maintenance and repair work. Depending on your career goals and interests, you may find that working on ships could be beneficial or not.
Working on ships can also be dangerous and challenging, given the remote locations and harsh weather conditions that you may encounter while at sea. This can cause some marine engineers to prefer working on land-based engineering projects, which can be more predictable and efficient.
While working on ships can be a valuable experience for gaining an understanding of marine systems and machinery, it is not a must-do for marine engineers. With simulators and other resources available, Marine engineers can gain practical experience without setting foot aboard a ship. Ultimately, the decision to work on ships or not will depend on individual preferences and career goals.