It would be a good idea, have them come in and show you the common failure parts like the ECM or points and how to change them as well as make out...
There aren't really any "conversion courses" so to speak. You should be getting all your STCW certificates that are required for entry level...
As long as it's on the engine that's in use. A weekend diesel course won't do this guy any good since he has big block Chevys which run on gasoline.
Your choice.