Who ensures that all WCS are adequately trained and qualified?

The responsibility of ensuring that all Watchstanders (WCS) are adequately trained and qualified typically falls to the LPO (Leading Petty Officer) or LCPO (Leading Chief Petty Officer). These roles are essential in overseeing the training and mentorship of crew members within a specific department or work center.

Individuals in these positions are highly knowledgeable about the operational requirements and competencies that are necessary for their team. They play a pivotal role in assessing the training needs based on job functions and ensuring that each watchstander receives the necessary training opportunities. Furthermore, they are responsible for tracking the progress of qualifications, verifying that all personnel meet the required standards before they can perform their duties independently.

In contrast, other roles may have responsibilities related to training but do not focus specifically on the hands-on, daily oversight and mentoring that LPOs and LCPOs provide. For instance, while the Supervisor may manage tasks and operations, the Department Head typically has a broader administrative role. The Training Officer may coordinate training programs but relies heavily on the LPO/LCPO to handle day-to-day training and qualification assessments. This reinforces the importance of the LPO/LCPO in the training and qualification process of watchstanders.