Wärtsilä is doubling down on its commitment to seafarer training, and this time, it’s going straight to the source: the Philippines, the world’s top supplier of maritime labour. The Finnish technology group has inked a strategic training partnership with GigaMare Inc., a local maritime training specialist, to deliver certified Wärtsilä engine training to Filipino seafarers. This isn’t just another training deal—it’s a strategic play to future-proof the global maritime workforce.
The move underscores a growing recognition: as shipping evolves, so must its people. “As the industry evolves, it is vital that seafaring crews are well equipped with the skills needed to operate vessels efficiently. They not only need the technical skills, but also the ability to lead, adapt, and succeed in today’s global maritime environment,” says Jari Ullakonoja, CEO & President of GigaMare. This partnership isn’t just about upskilling—it’s about equipping crews to navigate the complexities of modern shipping, from digitalisation to decarbonisation.
Wärtsilä isn’t handing over the keys and walking away. Its Land and Sea Academy (WLSA) will train and certify GigaMare instructors to ensure courses meet international standards, including STCW and ISM requirements. This ensures that the training isn’t just accessible but also globally recognised. “This new training partnership is a significant step towards establishing highly competent ship crews that are capable of operating and maintaining vessels efficiently, safely and cost-effectively,” says Tomi Urho, Director, Training Services at Wärtsilä. “Most importantly, by bringing Wärtsilä-certified training directly to the Philippines, we ensure that seafarers and ship operators have convenient and timely access to the latest expertise, tailored to the realities of their local context, which makes upskilling more accessible and impactful than ever before.”
The partnership also marks a shift in how maritime training is delivered. By embedding Wärtsilä-certified training in the Philippines, the programme addresses a critical gap: accessibility. For seafarers based in the region, this means less travel, lower costs, and more flexibility—key factors in making upskilling a realistic option.
GigaMare, founded in 2013, specialises in tailor-made training in maritime operations, repair, and maintenance. With the new agreement, it can now sell Wärtsilä product training directly to local customers as an authorised Wärtsilä Training Partner. This isn’t just good for GigaMare—it’s a win for the entire maritime industry. By fostering local expertise, the partnership helps ensure that the Philippines continues to supply the world with skilled, adaptable seafarers ready to meet the demands of modern shipping.
The ripple effects of this partnership could be far-reaching. If successful, it could set a precedent for similar collaborations in other key maritime labour markets. It also highlights the growing importance of localised training solutions in an industry that is increasingly globalised. As shipping faces mounting pressure to decarbonise and digitalise, the need for skilled, adaptable crews will only grow. This partnership is a step towards meeting that need—one engine, one seafarer, and one training course at a time.