Before attending Officer Candidate School in 2017, I had very little idea of what a Prevention officer does. However, once I learned of the incredible career opportunities both within the USCG and beyond, I opted to join the community.
I've been a Marine Inspector the last six years, which is where nearly every Prevention career begins. Throughout those years, I've been asked many questions about what exactly it is we do. Here's a list of the top 5 such questions with a brief answer:
1) What do you do?
We are responsible for ensuring commercial vessels meet regulatory compliance across a variety of safety, security, and environmental factors. This usually involves boots-on-deck inspections, but can sometimes involve auditing operational or administrative processes.
2) What kind of vessels do you inspect?
Just about any commercial vessel engaging in some sort of commerce with the U.S. is subject to a USCG inspection, including (under different authority) foreign-flagged vessels. There are a few exceptions, but we inspect most tug boats, barges, passenger vessels, product carriers, and even some military cargo vessels.
3) What's the hardest thing about your job?
The amount of reading/studying involved with becoming even minimally qualified is staggering. The regulations governing the maritime shipping industry are incredibly dense, and many scenarios are "first-time" or "one-off" experiences that are difficult to prepare for.
4) What do you enjoy most about inspections?
The learning never ends, and despite the complexities, it's very interesting to learn how the many systems onboard a ship work in harmony. This is made possible by the crew onboard the vessels - so the people you meet are what make the job most enjoyable.
5) How did you get stationed in Europe?
I consider myself lucky to have gotten this assignment, but the qualifications in highest demand for Activities Europe are Hull, Machinery, Dry Dock, and Foreign Passenger (Cruise Ship). I pursued getting as many of those qualifications as I could and had the fortune of an assignment year where 4 billets were open.
Do you have any questions (or anything to add) about being a Marine Inspector? Leave a comment!
Partner at Bennett Thrasher
1moWell, I can attest that you always step up when someone needs assistance. There is no hesitation. I have witnessed this trait for a long time. We will not share how long though.