From the command bridge, the forward view is distorted by windswept rain and turbulent waves. The master checks the vessel?s main propulsion systems as the chief mate operates a joystick to steer and maneuver the ship through Baltimore?s shipping channel to safe harbor.
These shipmates are navigating through another day of high sea simulation at the Maritime Institute of Technology & Graduate Studies in Linthicum Heights. The engine-steering simulator, one of two full-mission bridge simulators (day and nocturnal) at the continuing education center, is designed to capture and display accurate and realistic simulation detail for best in class training performance. “The simulators are vital and basic to training,” said Walt Megonigal, director of training at the institute. “They are the bedrock for safety programs in the industry.”
