IIMS CEO answers question about the new Professional Qualification in Marine Corrosion


We put some questions to Mike Schwarz, Chief Executive Officer of the International Institute of Marine Surveying (IIMS), about the new Marine Corrosion Professional Qualification which is launching in June 2021.


What prompted IIMS to develop this new qualification?


IIMS has a proud record of delivering training and education to marine surveyors going back 20 years and we were the first organisation to provide such opportunities to professionals working in this field. The award-winning IIMS diploma in marine surveying is highly regarded to this day and is constantly being updated and refreshed.


PROFESSIONAL QUALIFICATION


IN MARINE


Whilst we have a core module in the main diploma dedicated to materials and corrosion, it does not go into anything like as much depth as the new standalone qualification will do. In my time with IIMS I have seen many surveyors struggle and scratch their heads when the subject of corrosion is mentioned. For some, I suspect it remains a bit of a dark art. And it is for that reason that the Institute has decided to invest, develop and launch a ‘heavyweight’ course. Corrosion is a complex and multifaceted subject and one that demands good knowledge. The new qualification will, through 10 modules, give delegates a thorough grounding in the subject of corrosion, testing their learning at each stage as the programme develops.


Who should study for this qualification and is it open to non IIMS members?


Anyone may study for the qualification. IIMS members are offered a discount, but my primary motivation is to give the opportunity to surveyors worldwide, (no matter what their allegiance), to upskill in the area of marine corrosion. Let’s face it, most vessels of some age will be suffering from corrosion to one degree or another. Knowing how to inspect a vessel suffering from corrosion is just one aspect. Being able to accurately identify the type of corrosion and its cause is another. And finally, the ability to report the findings effectively in writing is vital. The aim of the course is to give surveyors the confidence through knowledge and learning to be able to do all three.


Who has developed the course content?


Mike Lewus is Director of Metal Metropol Ltd and boasts an impressive career record to date. He is the content producer and will deliver the live module lectures. A friend of the Institute, Mike has developed and delivered several seminars and a day-long course on corrosion for the benefit of members in recent years. I have personally seen the first few core modules and they are impressive and detailed. I am confident that those choosing to study will greatly enhance their corrosion knowledge and will gain new skills.


His career highlights include:


- Mike boasts over 25 years in coatings and steel-related R&D at USA and UK universities, including 20 years at Swinden Technology Centre (R&D labs of British Steel, Corus and Tata Steel).


- He was at the University of Sheffield and AMRC Training Centre for 4 years developing and building CPD materials related training courses.


- He has worked for 7 years as technical advisor at British Stainless Steel Association, including building and delivering training courses in stainless steel and corrosion.


CORROSION


42 | The Report • June 2021 • Issue 96


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