SCI and KOTUG renew strategic partnership on maritime training

Back row (L to R}: Capt. Stephen Polk, SCI Center for Maritime Education Director; Capt. Waldo de Waal, KOTUG Senior Trainer; Patrick Everts, KOTUG Optiport Director/Training & Consultancy Director. Front row (L to R}: Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, SCI President & Executive Director; Ard-Jan Kooren, KOTUG President & CEO. [Photo: SCI]

The Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) and Rotterdam-based KOTUG Training & Consultancy (KTC) have renewed their strategic partnership to expand world-class maritime training opportunities for U.S. mariners.

SCI, through its Center for Maritime Education, which has locations in Paducah, Ky, and Houston, is a leading provider of simulation-based training in the United States. With this renewed partnership, SCI will leverage KOTUG’s internationally recognized trainers and consultants to enhance its harbor tug training programs and integrated tug master–ship pilot courses.

KOTUG, a leading world player in harbor, river, and terminal towage training, will benefit from access to SCI’s state-of-the-art vessel and tug simulators. Together, the organizations will offer complementary services to ports, terminals, and the inland tug and barge industry, ensuring mariners have access to advanced training and innovative assessment tools.

“The renewal of our partnership with KOTUG reflects our shared commitment to maritime safety and excellence,” said The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, President and Executive Director, The Seamen’s Church Institute. “By combining our facilities with KOTUG’s global expertise, we can deliver the highest quality training for American mariners.”

“We are proud to continue working with SCI,” said Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO, KOTUG. “This collaboration merges international best practices with SCI’s deep knowledge of the U.S. market, providing unparalleled opportunities for maritime professionals.”

The renewed agreement strengthens both organizations’ ability to meet the evolving demands of the maritime industry and supports their mission to enhance safety, performance, and professionalism on the water.