ABS to acquire MetaSHIP game-based training

MetaSHIP is a digital maritime universe featuring vessels, ports and waterways, and training and assessment on vessel operations through gamification.[Image: ABS]

As part of its strategic growth plan for ABS Training Solutions, ABS is moving to deliver immersive, next-generation maritime training at scale. It has signed an agreement to purchase the MetaSHIP intellectual property and related vessel simulator software assets from Turkey’s Orka Informatics.

The acquisition, subject to Turkish regulatory approval, will allow ABS to expand its highly realistic digital training program, which can be delivered on board, in port or at home, as well as in a global network of high-tech ABS learning centers in Qatar, Greece and Singapore. The software powers an embedded gaming experience using the industry-leading MetaSHIP Fleet, virtual vessels that allow students to reach true competence without setting foot on board.

The MetaSHIP game-based training breaks down the complex tasks required to operate modern ships into highly visual and engaging lessons that equip seafarers with the skills they need in a rapidly evolving maritime landscape. MetaSHIP is a digital maritime universe featuring vessels, ports and waterways, and training and assessment on vessel operations through gamification. The ODENES platform, also included in the acquisition and part of MetaSHIP, tracks training completions and generates reports. Navigational Skill and Behavioral Assessment, another component of MetaSHIP, is a specific simulation used for measuring the performance of maritime personnel, designed to evaluate and enhance the operational skills and behaviors of users.

“Ultimately, the global maritime workforce must be equipped not only to understand new operating technologies, but to manage the transition itself, navigating hybrid systems, evolving safety standards and dynamic regulatory environmentsive for fleet safety and resilience, environmental compliance and global maritime competitiveness,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS chairman and CEO. “Investment in advanced training that delivers true competence rather than minimum standards is not optional; it is a strategic imperative for fleet safety and resilience, environmental compliance and global maritime competitiveness.”

“ABS is leading the way for our industry by equipping ourselves to deliver critical training at scale and pace, which shipping will certainly need to meet the challenging skills gap,” Wiernicki added. “By redefining training with world class tools and immersive techniques, our technology-focused approach allows students to spend many hours studying vessel operations without ever stepping foot on board.”

John McDonald, ABS president and COO, said: “Campbell Smith’s appointment signals ABS’ commitment to delivering training solutions that meet this urgent need. ABS sits at the intersection of regulation, technology and operational safety and is well equipped to support the industry with the tools and insight to operate safely in an increasingly complex environment.”

“MetaSHIP began as an idea to democratize access to maritime training, to make learning as immersive, realistic, and accessible as possible. Seeing it evolve into a technology that will now empower seafarers around the world under ABS’ leadership is incredibly rewarding,” said Levent Şen, founder of MetaSHIP.
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ABS has appointed Campbell Smith as senior vice president of ABS Training Solutions to lead expansion of its pioneering maritime training solutions that harness the potential of immersive courses that can be delivered anywhere.

Smith will be joining ABS in November from Maersk Training where he currently serves as chief commercial officer. He has a resume that includes leadership positions in a series of global maritime operations, building full-curriculum sales academies, devising global sales strategies and delivering organic growth at scale. He holds a master’s degree from INSEAD University in Fontainebleau, France, as well as a bachelor’s degree in marketing and international business and a post-graduate diploma in communications from the Auckland University of Technology, New Zealand.

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