Hands-on experience prepares students for the maritime industry and Maritime College cadets have the opportunity to participate in the Summer Sea Term, a required cruise aboard the TS Empire State VI, to earn a U.S Coast Guard License. To further expand the horizon for opportunity, Maritime College also offers the Cadet Shipping Program for Marine Transportation and Engineering students. The program partners with myriad maritime companies to provide a professional and industry-supported environment for cadets interested in pursuing a career in the maritime industry. Setting sail this summer, 78 cadets participated in the program working on Chemical and Oil Product Tankers, Dry Cargo and Ammunition Ships, Bulk Carriers, Offshore Support Vessels, etc. Industries participating in the program include: Crowley Maritime, Military Sealift Command, TE Subcom and more. Marine Transportation cadets are expected to gain familiarity with bridge equipment, earn proficiency in celestial navigation techniques and increase their understanding of electronic navigation and collision avoidance tools, and to learn the maintenance and repair routines necessary to keep a vessel operating safely. Engineering cadets are expected to achieve familiarity with the main engine, mechanical and electrical systems and participate in shipboard operations.

In previous years, the program allowed only license track cadets to participate. This past year, Cadet Shipping Coordinator, Bryan Gill made a significant change to the program, which allowed more students to participate and gain practical work experience in the industry. Gill introduced the Logistics Cadet/Junior Supply Officer program for Regimental non-license track ITT cadets to fulfill their GBUS 525 requirement, and the first cadet sailed this summer on a Dry Cargo/Ammunition Ship with MSC. Additionally, by partnering with the Sea Education Association and attending their career fair, Gill presented students interested in cadet shipping with a chance to sail aboard SSV Corwith Cramer and SSV Robert C Seamans.

Gill speaks highly of the program stating, “As an alumnus who cadet shipped with four different companies during my years at Maritime, I can attest that it is the most beneficial program a license track cadet can participate in if they are seeking a career at sea.”

Interested in learning more about the Cadet Shipping Program? For more information click here.