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Hull Artificer

Training as a shipwright is carried out in the NMCI and in association with Fás over a period of three years. On successful completion a recognised carpentry qualification is received. Summer breaks are spent on the Naval Base and aboard Naval Ships where much practical experience is gained. At sea the shipwright reports to the Marine Engineering Officer and is responsible for the repair of onboard furniture fittings and the implementation of damage control precautions where required.

Frame-making in the Hull Artificer's Workshop

Initial selection for training is by application for an apprenticeship through the Defence Forces Tech Trainee Scheme. Any individual can apply from any branch. The successful candidate will then commence a time based or modular based apprenticeship in conjunction with Fás. This is an internationally recognised qualification.

Shipwright using a band saw

Course  Prerequisites  Outcome
Hull Artificer Apprenticeship
Duration
3 years		 Group / Intermediate Certificate / Junior Certificate Internationally recognised qualification
S1
5 Weeks		 1 year “off the Job” training with Fás. Eligible for promotion to Ordinary Hull Artificer O/HA
S2
5 Weeks		 12 weeks sea time completed
Shipwright 1 course (S1) successfully completed
Sea Service / Workbook completed to required standard.
Written recommendation from Ships CO. and MEO For auxiliary watchkeeping certificate 		 Eligible for promotion to Able Hull Artificer A/HA
S3
6 Weeks		 Shipwright 2 Course (S2)
Successfully completed
20 weeks seagoing as A/HANational Craft Certificate Attained.
Sea Service / Workbook completed to required standard.
Written recommendation from Ships CO. and MEO.  		 Eligible for promotion to Leading Hull Artificer L/HA*
S4
8 Weeks		 Shipwright 3 Course (S3)Successfully completed
26 Weeks Service aboard Ship.
Written recommendation from Ships CO and MEO. 		 Eligible for promotion to Petty Officer Hull Artificer PO/HA**
S5
3 Weeks		 Shipwright 4 Course (S4) successfully completed
2 Years Service aboard Ship.
Written recommendation from Divisional Officer 		 Eligible for promotion to Chief Petty Officer Hull Artificer CPO/HA***

 *  Dependant on passing out of Potential NCO’s Course and Rank Vacancy
**  Dependant on passing out of Standard NCO’s Course and Rank Vacancy
***  Dependant on passing out of Senior NCO’s Course or Holding of Class 2 Certificate (Group / Intermediate Certificate/Junior Certificate Military equivalent) and Rank Vacancy