The Nautical Institute has launched a global survey to gather feedback from seafarers and maritime professionals on how technology is changing work at sea and ashore.
The survey forms part of the STEER (Seafarer Technology Engagement, Empowerment and Resilience) Project, being delivered by The Nautical Institute in collaboration with Lloyd’s Register Foundation.
The project will examine how technologies such as automation, digitalisation, Artificial Intelligence (AI), remote operations, connected systems, sensor-based monitoring, digital logs and onboard connectivity are affecting seafarers’ daily work, safety, skills and welfare.
The survey asks respondents where technology is improving operations, where it is creating additional workload or pressure, how it affects decision-making, and whether current training provides sufficient understanding of onboard systems.
It is available in multiple languages and is open to maritime professionals working at sea and ashore, including deck and engine officers, engineers, ratings, trainers, educators, naval architects, remote operators and safety professionals across the merchant, fishing, offshore, inland waterways, cruise, yacht and naval support sectors.
“Technology is changing maritime operations at pace, but the people who use these systems every day must be central to the conversation,” said Capt Ann Pletschke, STEER Project Lead at The Nautical Institute.
“Too often, decisions about technology are made without fully understanding the practical impact on seafarers’ work, safety, skills and welfare.”
The project’s findings will be used to develop guidance and practical tools to support the adoption of technology across the maritime sector.
“This survey is an important opportunity for seafarers and maritime professionals to influence how the industry approaches technological change,” said David Patraiko, Director of Projects at The Nautical Institute.
“By listening to those with direct operational experience, we can help ensure future tools and guidance are based on evidence rather than assumption.”
