The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has started a nationwide recruitment effort for its Centers of Excellence program. This initiative invites institutions to apply for training programs aimed at preparing the next generation of maritime workers, especially as the nation faces challenges with its declining shipbuilding industry and a shrinking workforce of mariners.
“Our Centers of Excellence provide essential infrastructure to train new maritime workers and improve our shipbuilding capabilities,” said MARAD Administrator Stephen M. Carmel. “This designation allows our partners to attract top talent and restore America's leadership in maritime affairs.”
The network of Centers of Excellence currently includes 32 institutions across 44 cities in 17 states. These centers are dedicated to training mariners for careers both at sea and on land. They focus on workforce development, research, collaboration, promotion, and policy support, all of which are vital for the growth and competitiveness of the maritime sector.
This program was first authorized in the National Defense Authorization Act of 2018. It aims to help the maritime industry build and maintain a well-trained workforce while also promoting diversity and inclusion. The first designated Centers of Excellence were announced in 2021, naming 27 academic institutions, with more designations revealed on February 22, 2024.
The initiative is crucial as the U.S. faces significant challenges in its maritime capacity. Currently, less than one percent of new commercial ships are built in the country, with only 66 shipyards in total, of which only eight are actively building ships. The declining number of large, oceangoing U.S.-flagged vessels has reduced job opportunities for mariners and led to a decrease in the number of certified professionals available for international sailing.
This announcement comes alongside the recent release of the White House Maritime Action Plan. This plan implements President Trump's executive order aimed at restoring American maritime strength, signed in April 2025. The comprehensive plan details specific steps to revitalize the Maritime Industrial Base by modernizing government procurement, simplifying regulations, and ensuring long-term funding for U.S.-built ships, shipyards, and mariners.
One key aspect of the plan is to expand support for the Centers of Excellence program, including increased funding for Registered Apprenticeships, community colleges, and accelerated trade programs designed to create more certified mariners. The plan also suggests collaboration with State Maritime Academies to bolster capacity when there is sustained demand for programs that offer Merchant Mariner Credentials with officer endorsements.
Additionally, the plan proposes a new Mariner Incentive Program at MARAD, which would provide financial support for mariner education, recruitment, training, and retention. It also aims to enhance transition programs for military service members, allowing them to receive credit for their military training and sea experience towards merchant marine credentials, thus widening the pool of qualified candidates.
MARAD has created a policy to offer guidance for those interested in applying for the Centers of Excellence designation. During application acceptance periods, MARAD will review all submitted applications and may contact applicants with questions to assist in the review process. Participation in the program is voluntary, allowing any eligible training entity to decide if they want to participate.
Designated institutions will have the opportunity to partner with MARAD through cooperative agreements to support student and faculty recruitment, enhance facilities, award academic credit for military service, and possibly receive surplus equipment or temporary use of MARAD vessels.
Applications are now open and will be accepted until 8:00 p.m. EST on April 13, 2026, for five-year designations as Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. Eligible colleges, trade schools, and maritime academies are invited to submit their applications. MARAD is hosting an informational webinar tomorrow, February 19, to help potential applicants understand the process better.
For more information on selection criteria and application guidance, please refer to the Federal Register.