Our Way 1
TRAINING PROGRAMME Oceanbird is currently produci
ng a full-scale wing sail prototype on board Wallenius Wilhelmsen’s vessel Tirranna. the onboard environment and delivering experience-based training. We build the programme so that it becomes increasingly realistic as participants progress through the training,” she says. The training will Hanna Ander be structured in three phases, beginning with a theoretical introduction delivered via a digital platform. This format offers flexibility for crew members to engage with the material at their own pace, reflect between sessions, and discuss insights with colleagues—an essential approach when navigating significant change. The theoretical part is followed by pracManagement Consultant Influence tical training and onboard implementation. “We place strong emphasis on explaining the rationale behind the initiative and why we are doing this. We want to foster engagement and create a sense of context around the significance of this change,” Hanna says. IT MIGHT SEEM SOMEWHAT UNCONVENTIONAL, BUT I THINK IT WOULD BE A VALUABLE EXPERIENCE. Martin Carlweitz Design Manager Cargo Systems Wallenius Marine impact on the ship’s stability is limited and manageable. But the vessel may still experience slight tilting, which will be a new factor especially for crew members with little or no prior sailing experience. “I believe a basic understanding of sailing principles is crucial. This can be learned through simulator training, but we’ve also considered incorporating practical sailing lessons. It might seem somewhat unconventional, but I think it would be a valuable experience.” THE TRAINING PROGRAMME currently taking shape is organized by Oceanbird, with input from captains, ship designers and 26 OUR WAY 1/2025 ship managers who contributed ideas on the setup. The training combines computer-based learning with classroom discussions, depending on the crew member’s position. Certain parts of the programme are mandatory for all. For the initiative to be effective, Martin emphasizes the importance of engaging and involving the crew. “It is vital that the crew members feel engaged, motivated, and see the value in contributing. We understand that this can be a challenging prospect. Therefore, the training programme is designed to ensure that they feel confident and safe before boarding the vessel,” he says. DEVELOPING A TRAINING programme for a technology that is yet to be implemented presents a unique set of challenges, according to management consultant Hanna Ander at Influence, the bureau that Oceanbird contracted to design the training programme. “We recognised that this was far from a standard introduction, and the training needs to reflect that. As the product still is under development, we need to explore alternative ways of simulating THE FIRST CREW to undergo training will be that of Tirranna from Wilhelmsen’s ship management, starting after this summer. The online sessions are scheduled to begin in September–October, followed by a site training i Landskrona. Oceanbird representatives will also remain onboard during the initial months to provide ongoing support and guidance. “Given the scale of this transition, we have expanded the scope to include staff from the onshore organisation. It’s equally important that they understand what this shift entails, enabling them to support the crew throughout the process,” says Hanna. Martin also suggests that even though this training is made for the Tirranna crew, in a long-term perspective crew members from other vessels could complete parts of the computerbased training. “If you are curious about wind Martin Carlweitz Design Manager Cargo Systems Wallenius Marine assistance, you should have the opportunity to learn more. I believe those who are genuinely interested in new technology and our vision will be eager to apply for these positions. Providing education and hands-on experience is also our strategy for retaining crew in the long term.”