Marine Survival Training Center
The University of Louisiana at Lafayette Marine Survival Training Center trains personnel from the petroleum, aviation and maritime industries in emergency procedures and use of the lifesaving equipment available to them.
Our mission is to provide the best marine safety training available by using state-of-the-art facilities and experienced, motivated instructors. MSTC has operated as a self-funded department of the University of Louisiana at Lafayette and have trained over 500,000 students since its inception in 1988.
In 1997, MSTC was the first facility in the United States to provide a state-of-the-art Helicopter Underwater Egress Training (HUET) utilizing our Modular Egress Training Simulator (METS). Prior to this, only military personnel could obtain this level of training. With the addition of a second training tank and METS unit, MSTC is one of the best equipped training facilities of its type in the world.
As a recognized leader in sea survival and Totally Enclosed Motor Propelled Survival Craft (TEMPSC) training, MSTC worked with industry and the U.S. Coast Guard in 1990 to develop an emergency response course for personnel working aboard Moveable Offshore Drilling Units (MODU). The Comprehensive Survival Suit and Survival Craft course is still a major element in licensing requirements. MSTC currently offers twelve courses approved by the US Coast Guard that are required for licensing.
Our United States Coast Guard Approved Courses are available for those seeking a new license, renewal or to add additional qualifications of their Merchant Mariner Credential. A USCG license is valid for use onboard vessels registered in the United States and with the National Vessel Documentation Center (NVDC).
In addition, MSTC offers courses in Helicopter Underwater Egress Training (HUET), Sea Survival, Fire Fighting, and First Aid/CPR. MSTC is also offering Escape Chute Training required in the Norwegian sector of the North Sea and other countries. Being able to complete this training in the USA prior to mobilizing their workforce to other parts of the world is a major advantage to US companies.
MSTC has come a long way since 1988. Aside from survival craft training and underwater helicopter egress training, the facility has expanded to include marine fire safety and much more.