STMA contacted me a couple of times and offered jobs that matched my qualifications, but then disappeared without any explanation. This was my only direct experience with them.
I have worked with this crewing company for a long time. They are reliable and consistently support seafarers from home until they join the vessel.
I was invited for urgent joining on a good tanker and came to the company's office to take the required tests. While I was completing them, the director repeatedly called me in and offered to change the vessel to an older ship with an Egyptian crew. I declined the replacement vessel.
I worked for them in 2021, and everything on their side was handled well. However, they are an intermediary and have limited influence over some matters. I completed one contract, and the commission was small.
I worked with this company and left with ITF assistance because I had honestly agreed to a six-month contract, but they wanted to extend me to eight months. If you are interested in working for a year, this may be acceptable, but it was not what I had agreed to.
In 2022, the company offered me a position on a bulk carrier. I came to their Odessa office, signed the contract, received workwear, and they arranged a hotel for me before departure. Unfortunately, I tested positive for COVID-19 and the voyage was cancelled, but I was left with a pleasant impression of the office.