KOTUG Training & Consultancy and The Seamen’s Church Institute Renew Strategic Partnership to Advance Maritime Training in the U.S.

September 25, 2025

KOTUG Training & Consultancy (KTC) and the Seamen’s Church Institute (SCI) have renewed their strategic partnership to further expand world-class maritime training opportunities for U.S. mariners.

Through its Center for Maritime Education in Paducah, KY, and Houston, SCI is a leading provider of simulation-based training in the United States. With this renewed collaboration, SCI will leverage KOTUG’s internationally recognized trainers and consultants to strengthen its harbor tug training programs and integrated tug master–ship pilot courses.

As a global leader in harbor, river, and terminal towage training, KOTUG will benefit from access to SCI’s state-of-the-art vessel and tug simulators. Together, the organizations will offer complementary services to ports, terminals, and the inland tug and barge industry, ensuring mariners have access to advanced training and innovative assessment tools.

“We are proud to continue working with SCI,” said Ard-Jan Kooren, CEO, KOTUG. “This collaboration merges international best practices with SCI’s deep knowledge of the U.S. market, providing unparalleled opportunities for maritime professionals.”

“The renewal of our partnership with KOTUG reflects our shared commitment to maritime safety and excellence,” added The Rev. Mark Nestlehutt, President and Executive Director of SCI. “By combining our facilities with KOTUG’s global expertise, we can deliver the highest quality training for American mariners.”

The renewed agreement strengthens both organizations’ ability to meet the evolving demands of the maritime industry and supports their shared mission to enhance safety, performance, and professionalism on the water.