ZeaQuest Enhances ROV Training to Drive Marine Industry Growth in Thailand

ZeaQuest Co. Ltd., a collaboration between Mermaid Subsea Services (Thailand) Ltd. and Rovula (Thailand) Ltd., under AI and Robotics Ventures (ARV) group of PTT Exploration and Production Plc., is committed to advancing Thailand’s marine industry by developing skilled Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) pilots.

Over the next five years, ZeaQuest aims to train 30 highly skilled ROV technicians to meet the growing demands of Thailand’s petroleum exploration and production (E&P) sector and the global energy market.

The maritime industry is rapidly evolving, with increasing reliance on advanced technologies for subsea operations such as pipeline installation, structural safety inspections, geological surveys, and natural resource exploration.

In Thailand, ROVs account for 70% of these operations, while Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs) make up the remaining 30%.

Mr. Thasaphich Thavornsuk, CEO of ZeaQuest, highlighted the need for such advancements: “Utilising ROVs significantly reduces the cost and risks associated with underwater engineering services, enhancing operational efficiency, safety, and precision in subsea inspections and maintenance tasks.”

Despite these technological advancements, Thailand faces a shortage of skilled ROV technicians, compounded by high labor costs and competition from neighboring countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam.

In response, ZeaQuest has launched the ROV Pilot Development Program, which includes intensive training at the Pinthong Industrial Estate in Chonburi. The facility features a 7-metre-deep training pool designed to simulate challenging underwater conditions, providing trainees with hands-on experience and mentorship from international experts.

The program aligns with the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA) standards, classifying ROV pilots into four levels: Pilot Level 1, Pilot Level 2, Sub-Engineer, and Supervisor. Trainees must accumulate operational hours similar to aviation training to advance in certification levels. Currently, ZeaQuest has certified three ROV pilots and expects to add four more by the end of this year.

Looking ahead, ZeaQuest plans to enhance its training facilities with simulators, wave generators, and maintenance structures to provide even more realistic training conditions.

These initiatives are part of ZeaQuest’s long-term goal to support industry growth, train 30 ROV pilots by 2029, and enhance Thailand’s global competitiveness. The company is also committed to adopting environmentally friendly technologies in line with its goal of achieving net-zero emissions by 2050, contributing to a more sustainable marine industry.

Source: Bangkok Post