STCW Alumni Spotlight: Real Kiwis, Global Careers
Where can STCW training take you? Whether it’s superyachts in Europe, marine recruitment here in Aotearoa, or LNG carriers in Asia — these four Training 4 Safety alumni show just how far your qualifications can take you.
For many, STCW training is just the beginning. It's the first step toward unforgettable experiences, life-long friendships, and rewarding careers on (and around) the water.
Here’s where it’s taken some of our recent trainees (Ryan, Alice, Barry, and Lochy):
Ryan – From Tradie to Engineer on Superyachts
Ryan took a bold leap at age 29 — leaving behind his career as an electrician to pursue life at sea.
Thanks to his electrical background and STCW training at T4S, he stepped into the world of yachting as a deck/engineer in 2019. That leap has taken him across America, Europe, and Southeast Asia, working on a range of vessels including a 35m yacht as sole engineer.
Today, Ryan holds a rotational engineering position aboard a larger vessel, giving him time off to rest, recharge, and reflect.
“It’s a fast-paced industry, but there’s nothing else I’d rather be doing. The people you meet along the way are truly invaluable.”
His story is proof that it’s never too late to start a new chapter — especially when the sea is calling. (Scroll images below to see more).
Alice – From Dock Walking to World Traveller
Three days. That’s how long it took Alice to go from walking the docks to signing onto a 62m motor yacht — a testament to her drive, charm, and the strong foundation built during her STCW training with T4S.
Since then, she’s travelled to Antigua, Italy, France, and is soon heading to Sweden, living the yachting dream and forming deep bonds with her crew.
“You live with your new found family and travel the world with them.”
Alice fondly remembers her time at Training 4 Safety:
“It was light-hearted and enjoyable — I still keep in touch with the friends I made during the week!”
She calls it her “favourite journey yet” — and it’s only just beginning. (Scroll images below to see more).
Barry – A Lifelong Career, A Return to Training
Barry’s maritime career began in the Royal New Zealand Navy, and it’s taken him through decades of service across cruise ships, charter vessels, and passenger and vehicle ferries. One of his proudest achievements has been managing entire fleets — but his latest venture is shaping the next generation.
Barry now runs Manaaki Marine, a New Zealand-wide marine recruitment agency connecting seafarers with both on-water and shore-based roles. As a maritime professional with qualifications requiring regular revalidation, Barry recently returned to Training 4 Safety to complete his STCW Refresher and Advanced Fire Fighting training.
“Having undertaken training with several providers over the years, I highly recommend the team at Training 4 Safety. The professionalism, facilities, equipment, and materials are top notch.”
He knows how foundational STCW is to building a career:
“The STCW-10 Basic Training course is the entry point for most foreign-going qualifications — and even some domestic roles. This training forms the base for further development and career growth.”
His advice for new seafarers? Connect, apply, and set sail into your next chapter. (Scroll images below to see more).
Explore career opportunities at: www.manaakimarine.co.nz
Lochy – Cromwell to the LNG Trade
Born and raised in the small South Island town of Cromwell, Lochy Brown knew he wanted a career that would take him places — and STCW was the launchpad.
After completing his OOW certificate at the New Zealand Maritime School, Lochy gained experience aboard internationally trading container ships and New Zealand’s very own MT Kokako oil tanker. Today, he’s working as a 3rd Mate on board LNG carriers, transporting over 100,000m³ of Liquefied Natural Gas from Western Australia to ports across Asia.
It’s a job with serious responsibilities — and serious safety risks.
“LNG is a highly specialised cargo and keeping up to scratch on firefighting knowledge and fire awareness is vital.
Training 4 Safety absolutely provides the knowledge!”
From sunsets in Japan to high-pressure situations on deck, Lochy’s role is a mix of discipline, skill, and adventure — and one that all started with STCW. (Scroll images below to see more).
Ready to Start Your Maritime Journey?
Whether you’re looking for a life at sea, a foot in the door, or your next professional step, STCW training is where it all begins.
Our next STCW Basic Training course starts soon — secure your spot now!
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