Morten Bustgaard

Morten Bustgaard serves as Senior Lecturer in the Department of Maritime Operations at the University of Southeast Norway's Faculty of Technology, Natural Sciences and Maritime Studies. With over two decades of combined maritime industry and academic experience, he specializes in developing simulator-based training programs that bridge theoretical knowledge with practical navigation skills.

His educational credentials include:

• Bachelor in Nautical Science D1 (Sea Captain certification)
• Master in Maritime Management (Technical Direction specialization)

Bustgaard's research and teaching focus centers on maritime navigation safety through advanced simulator technology. He pioneers the integration of ECDIS systems, crisis management protocols, and resource allocation training into realistic scenarios where students practice emergency response without real-world risks. His methodology transforms complex navigation challenges into structured learning experiences that build both technical proficiency and decision-making confidence.

As an academic supervisor, Bustgaard maintains strong industry partnerships with shipping companies and maritime training centers. These collaborations ensure curriculum relevance through regular input from operational professionals and create pathways for student placements. His external consulting work develops customized simulator training for maritime professionals worldwide, extending his educational impact beyond campus.

His departmental leadership in simulator pedagogy has established USN as a regional hub for maritime safety training. Through continuous refinement of navigation instrument instruction and crisis response protocols, Bustgaard's work directly addresses evolving industry demands for technically skilled mariners capable of managing complex emergency situations.