The Tribune

Thirty-nine employees at the Grand Bahama Shipyard (GBS) have received internationally-recognised certificates after completing various training programmes.

The qualifications mean they are now Occupational Saftey and Health Administration (OSHA) certified, enabling them to work on any ship in the world.

Of the 39, some 13 were Bahamians.

Reuben Byrd, the Shipyard’s executive vice-president of operations, said: “It’s good that our men, especially young Bahamian men, are able to be certified and accept additional responsibility on top their existing skills.

“Over the last three years, the Yard has concentrated on improving the skill level of all staff. We are very pleased with our staff’s willingness to excel.”

Tony Beckford, who has been working at the Shipyard for almost 12 years, received the most certificates out of the training class, gaining qualifications in rigging, scaffolding, cherry picker, forklift and mobile crane.

He said: “I am very excited to have these new certifications, as it gives me more flexibility in the job. I can now move from one field to another, and hopefully it will increase my work load.”

When asked about working at the Shipyard, he added: “I would definitely recommend young people to work here at the Shipyard. The training programme that they provide is excellent for growth, and the apprenticeship programme is one of the best in the Bahamas for young people to enter into.”

Yale Tynes, who has also been with the Shipyard for 12 years, said: “I have been able to complete many certification courses.

“Some have been only for the yard, and others have enabled me to work anywhere I want, like the one I received today. I can just take my certification card and present it on any ship and, if I’m qualified, I can work there.”

Training is an ongoing process at the Shipyard. Mr Byrd added: “It is essential in this industry to be continuously honing and improving on the skill level, and also learning new skills that come with new technology.”