With simulation, many types of situations may be created to allow the student to apply his or her knowledge in a very real environment but not place the individual in any danger. The simulators are used not only by academy midshipmen, but are also available to students from the maritime industry enrolled in Continuing Maritime Education courses. This device simulates many liquid bulk loading and discharging situations that the licensed officer may encounter on tankers, LNG ships and barges. The simulator is used in the undergraduate program as well as by the Continuing Maritime Education program for personnel already employed in the industry. The tanker simulator uses its own computers in its operation.
Students work piloting navigation problems as well as ship plotting in the simulator.
Radar simulators give a very realistic picture of the operation of ship's radar and collision avoidance systems. Each deck student will spend approximately 80 hours working with the radar simulators. This computerized simulator includes a typical control room console and an engine room with devices showing all phases of the engine's operation. Sound is included in this sophisticated simulator. The simulator is a modern slow-speed diesel engine similar to those operating in newer ships.