COLREGS

Term from Sailing Instruction industry explained for recruiters

COLREGS, also known as the International Regulations for Preventing Collisions at Sea, are the essential "rules of the road" for boats and ships. Think of them like traffic rules for the water - they help prevent accidents by establishing clear guidelines for how vessels should behave when meeting each other at sea. When someone mentions COLREGS in their resume, they're indicating they understand these important safety rules and can teach them to others. This knowledge is crucial for sailing instructors, maritime teachers, and anyone involved in boating education.

Examples in Resumes

Certified instructor teaching COLREGS and basic navigation to recreational boaters

Developed comprehensive COLREGs training materials for maritime academy students

Led Collision Regulations courses for both professional mariners and hobbyist sailors

Typical job title: "Maritime Instructors"

Also try searching for:

Sailing Instructor Maritime Educator Navigation Instructor Boating Safety Instructor Maritime Training Officer Marine Safety Instructor Nautical Studies Teacher

Example Interview Questions

Senior Level Questions

Q: How would you develop a COLREGS training program for a maritime academy?

Expected Answer: Look for answers that show experience in curriculum development, understanding of different learning styles, and ability to create both theoretical and practical training components. They should mention assessment methods and real-world scenario training.

Q: How do you stay current with changes in maritime regulations and incorporate them into your teaching?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate knowledge of industry resources, professional development practices, and ability to update teaching materials to reflect current regulations and best practices.

Mid Level Questions

Q: What methods do you use to teach COLREGS to students with different learning styles?

Expected Answer: Should discuss various teaching techniques like visual aids, practical exercises, mnemonics, and real-world examples to help students understand and remember the rules.

Q: How do you assess whether students truly understand COLREGS beyond memorization?

Expected Answer: Should explain practical assessment methods, scenario-based testing, and ways to verify students can apply rules in real situations, not just recite them.

Junior Level Questions

Q: Can you explain the basic categories of COLREGS rules?

Expected Answer: Should be able to explain the main parts of COLREGS in simple terms: steering rules, lights and shapes, sound signals, and general conduct rules.

Q: How do you explain right of way rules to beginner boaters?

Expected Answer: Should demonstrate ability to explain complex rules in simple terms using everyday examples and basic scenarios that new boaters can understand.

Experience Level Indicators

Junior (0-2 years)

  • Basic understanding of COLREGS rules
  • Ability to teach fundamental navigation concepts
  • Basic classroom management
  • Knowledge of basic safety procedures

Mid (2-5 years)

  • Comprehensive knowledge of maritime regulations
  • Experience with various teaching methods
  • Ability to create lesson plans
  • Practical demonstration skills

Senior (5+ years)

  • Curriculum development expertise
  • Advanced teaching methodologies
  • Program management capabilities
  • Ability to train other instructors

Red Flags to Watch For

  • Unable to explain rules in simple terms
  • Lack of hands-on boating experience
  • No formal maritime education or certification
  • Poor communication skills