The Department of Marine and Ports Services is pleased to welcome two new maritime trainees: Dylan Ward, who will begin training to become a Branch Pilot and Ibrahim Douch, who will train to become a Maritime Controller with the Bermuda Maritime Operations Centre (BMOC).

Both positions are critical to ensuring Bermuda’s maritime safety and operational readiness, and encompass a fully funded three-year training programme, including overseas certifications and hands-on experience.

Dylan’s training as a Branch Pilot will include earning a Certificate of Competency in Basic Ship Handling from the Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies in Maryland, USA, as well as attaining his Branch Pilot License. Once qualified, Branch Pilots are responsible for boarding large vessels, navigating them safely into and out of Bermuda’s ports, and ensuring the safety of crew, cargo, and the surrounding marine environment.

“I’ve always been drawn to the sea, whether by fishing, studying biology, or doing ocean crossings, and previously working as a Maritime Controller” said Dylan. “This role offers the chance to continue learning, take on new challenges, and help guide ships safely to shore.”

Ibrahim’s path to becoming a Maritime Controller follows a similar trajectory, shaped by his long-standing interest in marine navigation and small commercial vessel piloting operations in local waters. Having first trained and worked as an airplane pilot, he later earned his charter boat license after moving to Bermuda and took on leadership roles at sea. His three-year training programme will lead to an Officer of the Watch certification from the Warsash Maritime School in Southampton, UK. Maritime Controllers monitor vessel traffic and coordinate port operations, detect vessel hazards, undertake the transmission of marine safety information to mariners, assist with fisheries enforcement, coordinate search and rescue operations and respond to marine pollution and security incidents, and oversee maritime domain awareness in territorial waters, the exclusive economic zone and anywhere globally that Bermuda registered vessels and aircraft operate.

“This position is something I’ve wanted for a long time,” said Ibrahim. “It’s about protecting people, monitoring hazards, and keeping our waters safe. The work is fulfilling, and I would encourage anyone interested to keep learning, gain your licenses, and never become complacent.”

Valerie Robinson-James, Acting Head of the Public Service, highlighted the importance of these roles and the opportunities they present:

“In Bermuda, several Branch Pilots will reach retirement age in the next few years, creating opportunities for the next generation to step forward. The Government funds provide training for these positions, including overseas qualifications, making them accessible to talented and motivated individuals. Dylan and Ibrahim’s stories demonstrate the diversity of careers available within the Public Service, and we encourage others to explore these rewarding paths.”

The Government of Bermuda remains committed to investing in its workforce, offering training programmes that lead to long-term careers while contributing to the island’s safety and prosperity. 

To learn more about career opportunities in the Public Service, download our Career Guide at https://www.gov.bm/sites/default/files/2024-06/Your_Guide_To_Careers_In_Public_Service.pdf