Jr. Engineer Pathways Pre-Prep and Training Courses
(COMING SOON)

TAP Culinary Arts Inc. offers the Able-Bodied Seaman (AB Cook) Pre-Apprenticeship Training 80 hours; online Program as a second-tier workforce training designed for individuals who have successfully completed the Ordinary Seaman program and aspire to gain advanced skills in
seamanship and shipboard culinary operations. 

This specialized track prepares participants to meet the qualifications for AB certification, with a focus on integrating galley operations, maritime sanitation, safe food handling, and USCG-compliant shipboard culinary practices. The training includes theoretical and practical instruction in line handling, rigging, navigation watch, and lifeboat operation, combined with maritime food service safety and ServSafe certifications. 

AB Cook trainees benefit from cross-training in both deck and culinary departments, expanding their employment opportunities aboard commercial vessels, research ships, cruise lines, and government contracted fleets. By building on foundational seafaring knowledge and developing specialized culinary skills, this program helps participants advance toward full AB credentials and enhances their competitiveness in the global maritime workforce.

This pre-training model bridges the gap between entry-level maritime roles and long-term career advancement, contributing to a diverse and highly skilled seafaring labor pool.

This course prepares mariners for the U.S. Coast Guard AB exam and certification, enabling them to
take on higher responsibilities on U.S. and international vessels.

Credentials & Training Required by the Coast Guard:

• STCW (Standard of Training, Certification & Watchkeeping) Basic Safety Training (BST):
o Personal Safety & Social Responsibilities (QUALMI-359)
o Personal Survival Techniques (QUALMI-363)
o Basic Firefighting (QUALMI-53)
o First Aid & CPR (QUALMI-197 or equivalent EMS 8-hour)
• Proficiency in Survival Craft (PSC) – QUALMI-372
• RFPNW (Rating Forming Part of a Navigational Watch) – QUALMI-412
• Vessel Personnel with Designated Security Duties (VPDSD) – QUALMI-747
• U.S. Coast Guard Medical Certificate
• Letter documenting 183+ days of sea service aboard T/V Retriever
• Coast Guard Certification and MMC with AB endorsement (Special, Limited, OSV, or Unlimited)
• TWIC Card, U.S. Passport, Medical Certificate, Merchant Mariner Credential (OS Endorsement)

Pre-Prep Training for General Vessel Assistant (GVA)
✓ Covers basic deck and engine duties, safety, maintenance support, and vessel operations for entry level maritime roles.
Pre-Prep Training for Deck Engine Utility (DEU)
✓ Introduces combined deck/engine skills including line handling, equipment checks, basic repairs, and shipboard safety.
Pre-Prep Training for Wiper
✓ Teaches engine room housekeeping, equipment cleaning, lubrication basics, and safe machinery-area practices.
Pre-Prep Training for Oiler
✓ Focuses on machinery lubrication, equipment monitoring, routine engine room tasks, and safe mechanical operations.
Pre-Prep Training for QMED / Engine Maintenance
✓ Provides foundational mechanical skills including engine troubleshooting, maintenance procedures, repair support, and machinery safety.