News

“U. S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) Midshipmen have different training requirements than others. Located in Kings Point, New York, this smaller, lesser known federal academy requires its students to spend a full year of their undergraduate education at sea on an operational ship.”

“Two Houston Ship Pilots who risked their lives to bring a burning ship to safety and prevented a major maritime disaster on the Houston Ship Channel have been presented with the International Maritime Organization Award for Exceptional Bravery at Sea, the highest honor for bravery at sea in global maritime industry.”

“Boykin became president of Newport News Shipbuilding this summer, capping a steady climb that began when she reapplied at the shipyard one year after that initial rejection. At 53, she commands the only U.S. shipyard that makes nuclear-powered aircraft carriers and one of two yards that manufacture nuclear-powered submarines.”

“One of the greatest P3s in U.S. history is probably the least known. It’s a program that pairs commercial shipping companies with the federal government to train U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) midshipmen, preparing them for careers in national security or U.S. trade.”

“For some, the Chesapeake is a tantalizing view from an office window. For others, the waterway represents a livelihood. For the lucky and dedicated, like Maryland Pilot Alison Buckler, the Bay is at once an office, a passion and an opportunity to blaze a trail (dare we say create a wake?).”

“I am proud beyond words to say that I was accepted to the Academy, one of the most respected, rigorous academic institutions in the country. As I approach my senior year, it is my hope these words will inspire other high school seniors to consider an education at the one of the service academies.”

“The United States is the world’s commercial superpower. We are the largest importer and second-largest exporter of merchandise. In 2015, American exports of merchandise abroad totaled over $1.5 trillion. Seaborne trade represents an enormous share of this activity: In 2016, over $475 billion worth of American exports were transported overseas by ship.”

“No sector reflects the urgent need to invest in human capital more than the maritime industry. Responsible for transporting cargo in times of peace — and troops and materiel in times of war — the U.S. merchant marine has carved out critical roles in the country’s economic and national security operations.”

“By appointing Elaine Chao as Secretary of Transportation, President Donald Trump has sent a strong signal that maritime security — and the institutions that train our future leaders — is a serious priority.

“In 2016, the DOT suspended mission-critical training for future officers on commercial and naval vessels. The decision was done with little public comment, even though it has the potential to cause lasting damage to the maritime industry, a sector where economic and national security go hand in hand.”