New Agreement with KRISO, KOSHIPA, and KUSPC Sets Up Framework for Workforce Development, Technical Certification, and Naval MRO Readiness
ABS has signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with prominent Korean shipbuilding and research organizations to promote workforce development, technical certification, and regulatory collaboration in the shipbuilding and maritime sectors between Korea and the U.S.
The agreement involves the Korea Research Institute of Ships and Ocean Engineering (KRISO), the Korea Offshore & Shipbuilding Association (KOSHIPA), and the Korea-U.S. Shipbuilding Partnership Center (KUSPC). It was signed during the opening of KUSPC, with a significant focus on enhancing workforce skills for the U.S. naval maintenance, repair, and overhaul (MRO) market.
“Advanced shipbuilding requires an advanced workforce—one that is trained, certified, and ready to meet the high standards of modern naval and commercial shipbuilding, modernization, and repair. This MOU establishes a framework to develop that capability, and ABS is proud to support it with our extensive experience in classification, certification, and regulatory standards,” said Ron Rábago, Senior Vice President of Government Services at ABS.
According to the MOU, KRISO will bring its expertise in advanced ship engineering, smart manufacturing, and shipbuilding R&D. KOSHIPA will assist with workforce development and production training through its broad industrial network, while KUSPC will help coordinate efforts between governments, industries, and research institutions. ABS will provide expertise in classification, certification, verification, maritime safety, and standards in both international and U.S. naval regulations. Together, they aim to create mutually recognized qualification and certification programs, support exchanges for instructors and the workforce, and enhance readiness for U.S. shipbuilding.
ABS has a solid history of supporting both U.S. and international maritime programs, offering classification, certification, and regulatory knowledge for some of the industry's toughest requirements. As the effort to strengthen U.S. shipbuilding gains traction, ABS is committed to helping shape the standards and programs that will mold the workforce of the future. To learn more about ABS, click here.