The maritime industry is doubling down on education standards with the relaunch of the Certificate of Excellence, a joint initiative by the Institute of Marine Engineering, Science and Technology (IMarEST) and The Nautical Institute (NI). This isn’t just a badge of honour—it’s a global call to arms for maritime academies, universities, and commercial training providers to step up their game. The certificate, which evaluates institutions against education standards, training quality, and institutional quality assurance, is designed to set a clear benchmark for excellence in maritime education.
Chris Goldsworthy, Chief Executive of IMarEST, frames this as a response to industry demand: “We are delighted to be working with our colleagues at The Nautical Institute to restore this prestigious recognition. Following feedback from members and partners across the world, we recognise a demand for global standards in maritime education, so this accreditation reinforces our dedication to industry innovation, workforce excellence and continual learning across our sector.” This isn’t just about ticking boxes—it’s about aligning education with the evolving needs of the industry. From digitalisation to decarbonisation, the next generation of maritime professionals needs training that keeps pace with change.
Captain John Lloyd, CEO of The Nautical Institute, underscores the urgency: “High-quality maritime education is fundamental to the safety, sustainability and long-term success of our industry. By relaunching the Certificate of Excellence in collaboration with IMarEST, we are setting a clear standard for institutions that not only meet global expectations but also demonstrate a commitment to continuous improvement. This initiative will help ensure that the next generation of maritime professionals are equipped with the skills, knowledge, and leadership required to support a safer and more resilient future for the sector.” The message is clear: the sector’s future hinges on the quality of its training pipelines.
This initiative isn’t just about raising standards—it’s about future-proofing the industry. As maritime operations grow more complex, the need for well-rounded, adaptable professionals becomes non-negotiable. The Certificate of Excellence isn’t just an accolade; it’s a tool to drive continuous improvement in maritime education. By setting a global benchmark, it challenges institutions to innovate, adapt, and elevate their programmes to meet the demands of a rapidly changing industry.
For training providers, this is a chance to differentiate themselves in a competitive market. For students, it’s a signal of quality—ensuring their education meets global standards. And for the industry as a whole, it’s a step toward a more skilled, resilient, and future-ready workforce. The Certificate of Excellence isn’t just about recognising excellence—it’s about demanding it.