ZeaQuest Co. Ltd., a joint venture between Mermaid Subsea Services (Thailand) Ltd. and Rovula (Thailand) Ltd., under AI and Robotics Ventures (ARV) group of PTT Exploration and Production Plc., is spearheading efforts to train 30 skilled Remotely Operated Vehicle (ROV) pilots over the next five years. This initiative is set to meet the expansion of Thailand's petroleum exploration and production (E&P) industry and global energy markets.
The maritime industry is undergoing a significant technological revolution, with a growing need for advanced technologies in engineering activities, including underwater pipeline installation, safety inspections of subsea structures, underwater geological surveys, natural resource exploration. Many companies have started incorporating robotics such as Remotely Operated Vehicles (ROVs) and Autonomous Underwater Vehicles (AUVs) and Unmanned Surface Vehicles (USVs). In Thailand's expanding E&P sector, ROV usage accounts for 70%, while AUVs and USVs account for 30%.
Mr. Thasaphich Thavornsuk, Chief Executive Officer of ZeaQuest, stated, “ZeaQuest sees the opportunity to utilise remotely operated underwater vehicles (ROVs) and other technologies in underwater operations to reduce the cost of underwater engineering services, minimise the risks associated with divers' tasks, lower operational expenses, and enhance accuracy in inspections, maintenance, and subsea structural surveys.”
However, Thailand is facing a shortage of skilled ROV technicians due to the complexity of the equipment and the intensive training required. Additionally, there is fierce competition among companies in the same industry to attract qualified personnel. As a result, labour costs for these skilled workers have risen significantly, leading to higher fixed costs. Many companies have turned to freelancers or foreign experts, but this approach lacks long-term skill development continuity.
“The shortage of personnel affects Thailand’s competitiveness in the Exploration and Production (E&P) sector compared to countries like Malaysia, Indonesia, and Vietnam. In response, ZeaQuest has launched the ROV Pilot Development Program, aiming to train and develop specialised ROV technicians. The training takes place at the Pinthong Industrial Estate in Chonburi, featuring a 7-metre-deep training pool that simulates more challenging wave conditions. Program participants are also given the opportunity to work alongside international experts to gain practical experience and a better understanding of real-world challenges. Currently, three participants have met the international standards for entry-level ROV pilots, with more expected to follow. Given the company’s steady subsea exploration, inspection, and maintenance operations, ZeaQuest is confident in producing skilled technicians through its ROV Pilot Development Program for Thailand’s energy sector,” Mr. Thasaphich explained.
The program is aligned with the standards of the International Marine Contractors Association (IMCA), with ROV pilots classified into four levels: Pilot Level 1, Pilot Level 2, Sub-Engineer, and Supervisor. Participants must also accumulate operational hours similar to the training process for pilots.
Currently, ZeaQuest has three certified ROV pilots and expects to certify four more this year, bringing the total to seven.
The ROV Pilot Development Program plays a vital role in boosting Thailand’s competitiveness in the petroleum exploration and production industry while also enhancing operational safety and efficiency in line with international standards.
Mr. Thasaphich further added, "In the future, ZeaQuest plans to upgrade its training facilities by installing simulators, maintenance structures, and wave generators to create more realistic training conditions. These developments will help prepare Thai personnel for global competition in a sustainable manner. Our goal is to train 30 skilled ROV technicians over the next five years to support industry growth and elevate Thailand’s competitiveness on the global stage. Additionally, ZeaQuest is committed to marine environmental protection by adopting technologies that support the transition to a low-carbon society, with the aim of achieving net-zero greenhouse gas emissions by 2050."
