•  Content Creator : Prabhjot
• 16-07-2024

Have you ever dreamt of a career that takes you across the world's oceans, working with cutting-edge technology, and ensuring the smooth sailing of massive vessels? If the answer is yes, then the Electro Technical Officer (ETO) course might be the perfect pathway for you. As an ETO, you will be responsible for maintaining and repairing all electrical and electronic equipment on a ship, including radio communications and electronic navigation aids. In this blog, we’ll dive into the details of the ETO course for 2024, covering fees, eligibility criteria, available seats, and the admission process.

Course Overview

The Electro Technical Officer (ETO) program is a rigorous 1-year course designed by industry leaders to meet global standards. The course features a comprehensive training schedule, including a 4-month on-shore training phase followed by 8 months of practical shipboard experience. This comprehensive curriculum equips you with the skills and knowledge needed to excel as an ETO in the maritime industry. Key areas of study include:

• Electrical power systems
• Electronic navigation systems
• Communication systems
• Automation and control systems
• Safety regulations and standards

Course Commencement and Intake

The ETO course is offered three times a year, with batches commencing in January, June, and October. Each batch accommodates 40 seats, totaling 120 seats annually. This allows for a steady intake of students, ensuring that there are ample opportunities for aspiring ETOs to enroll throughout the year.

Fee Structure of ETO Courses at Leading Institutes

The fees for the Electro Technical Officer (ETO) course can vary significantly among different institutions, reflecting diverse facilities and offerings tailored to maritime training. Here’s a breakdown of the fee structures at two prominent institutes:

Eligibility Criteria

To enroll in the ETO course, you must meet the following eligibility criteria:

Educational Qualification

1. 10+2 Qualification:
   • Completed 10+2 from a recognized board with Physics, Chemistry, Mathematics, and English as separate subjects.
   • Minimum 50% in English in 10th or 12th standard.
2. Diploma or Degree:
   • A 3-year diploma or a 4-year degree (including lateral entry) in Electrical Engineering, Electronics Engineering, Electrical and Electronics Engineering, Electronics and Telecommunication/Communication Engineering, or Electronics and Instrumentation, recognized by any State or Central Government or the AICTE.
   • Minimum 55% in the qualifying diploma or degree course.

Age Limit

• The maximum age limit is 25 years.

Medical Fitness

• You need to meet the medical fitness standards prescribed by the Directorate General of Shipping (DGS), Government of India. This includes having good eyesight and physical fitness to meet the job's rigorous demands.

English Proficiency

• A good command of English is essential, as the course and maritime communication are conducted in English.

Career Progression

The Electro Technical Officer (ETO) course provides a clear career progression path in the maritime industry. After completing the course, candidates typically advance through the following positions:

Trainee Electro Technical Officer (Trainee ETO): Upon completion of the ETO course, graduates typically start their careers as Trainee Electro Technical Officers. During this phase, they undergo practical training both on-shore and on-board ships to apply their theoretical knowledge in real-world scenarios.

Assistant Electrical Officer: After gaining sufficient experience and demonstrating competency in handling electrical and electronic systems on ships, Trainee ETOs may be promoted to Assistant Electrical Officers. In this role, they take on more responsibilities in maintaining and troubleshooting shipboard electrical equipment under the supervision of senior officers.

Electrical Officer: The next progression is to become an Electrical Officer, where individuals take full responsibility for the electrical and electronic systems aboard a ship. They ensure the proper functioning of all electrical machinery, communication systems, and navigation aids, playing a crucial role in the safety and operational efficiency of the vessel.

Admission Process

The admission process for the ETO course typically involves the following steps:

1. Online Application Form:
   • Apply for the ETO course via an online application form and pay an application fee. Further instructions will be provided by the institute's admissions office.
2. Online Test:
   • You will receive an email with a link to an online examination. The test links are sent out in batches, so you should regularly check their email and add the institute's email address to their contact list to prevent emails from being diverted to their spam folder. The admissions team will determine the cut-off score after all candidates take the test. Those who meet or exceed the cut-off score will be invited for an interview.
3. Personal Interview:
   • Candidates who meet the cut-off score in the online test will be invited for an interview at the institute's campus.
4. Medical Test:
   • Shortlisted candidates must undergo a comprehensive medical examination by the Merchant Shipping (Medical Examination) Rules, 2000. All the medical assessment-related details will be communicated by the admissions team.
5. Final Selection:
   • The final merit list is based on academic scores, online test scores, personal interview, and medical tests. Selected candidates must pay a non-refundable booking amount within the stipulated time.
6. Sponsorship Letter:
   • Upon receipt of the booking amount, you are issued with a sponsorship letter containing all the details.
7. Joining Formalities:
   • Candidates wishing to avail of a loan should complete the necessary procedures prior to the joining date. On the day of joining, you should carry all required documents, like educational certificates, passports, and photographs.

Job Prospects

Upon completing the 4-month pre-sea training ashore and the 8-month structured shipboard training as a trainee ETO, you can appear for an examination conducted by D.G. Shipping, Government of India, for the issuance of a “Certificate of Competency (COC)” for the rank of Electro Technical Officer. The Shipping Corporation of India Ltd. (SCI) may employ these candidates on ships owned, manned, or operated by SCI, subject to the availability of vacancies.

Conclusion

The Electro Technical Officer (ETO) course is an excellent opportunity for those looking to build a career in the maritime industry. With the right qualifications and training, ETOs play a critical role in ensuring the safe and efficient operation of ships. By understanding the fees, eligibility criteria, seats, and admission process, aspiring candidates can better prepare themselves for a successful career as an Electro Technical Officer in 2024.