The U.S. Senate confirmed Stephen Carmel as the Administrator of the Maritime Administration on Thursday, ending months of uncertainty about the agency's leadership, which is responsible for improving the domestic shipbuilding industry in America.
In this role, he will also serve as Commandant of the U.S. Maritime Service, overseeing the training and readiness of U.S. Merchant Marine officers who contribute to national defense and maritime workforce development.
Carmel is the president of U.S. Marine Management LLC and has extensive experience in maritime operations. He started his career as a deck officer and Master with Maritime Overseas Corporation and Military Sealift Command, where he earned his first command of a large tanker at just 26 years old. Before this position, he was a senior executive at Maersk Line, Limited, which is the U.S.-flagged shipping arm of Maersk.
“I am honored to serve and work with Secretary Duffy to restore America’s maritime strength,” said Stephen Carmel after his confirmation. “The maritime industry, including our dedicated mariners and port workers, plays a vital role in transporting goods and ensuring our national security. I look forward to investing in this essential industry.”
With this confirmation, Carmel becomes the first MARAD Administrator to hold a Master’s Unlimited license since Captain William G. Schubert, who served from 2001 to 2005. He graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in 1979 and holds advanced degrees in Economics and International Finance from Old Dominion University.
Maritime labor organizations were pleased with his confirmation. In a joint statement, unions like the Marine Engineers’ Beneficial Association and the American Maritime Officers expressed confidence in Carmel's leadership. They noted his deep industry knowledge and commitment to the U.S. flag fleet, which is crucial as the nation seeks to expand its maritime capabilities and support its fleet against unfair competition, particularly from countries like China.
Carmel's confirmation was part of a group vote after Senate rules were changed to allow batch confirmations. Laura DiBella was also confirmed as Federal Maritime Commissioner for a term ending June 30, 2028.
Senator Maria Cantwell, who ranks on the Senate Committee on Commerce, Science, and Transportation, praised Carmel's nomination in November, highlighting his clear vision for rebuilding the U.S. shipbuilding industry, which is vital for the economy and national security. She noted her support for his nomination and that he is committed to upholding the Jones Act and addressing issues of misconduct at the Merchant Marine Academy.
As MARAD Administrator, Carmel will work on President Trump’s Executive Order to strengthen the maritime industry, and will advise Secretary Duffy on related policies.
Carmel was nominated after President Trump retracted the nomination of retired Navy Captain Brent Sadler in May 2025. Sadler stated his support for Carmel, emphasizing the need for strong leadership in MARAD.
In June 2025, the U.S. Department of Transportation appointed Sang H. Yi as Acting Maritime Administrator while Carmel awaited Senate confirmation. Yi also graduated from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy and has nearly 15 years of experience working with congressional oversight.
DiBella, who was confirmed alongside Carmel in a vote of 53-43, is an attorney at Adams & Reese and served as Florida's first female Secretary of Commerce. Her background includes roles as President of Business Development at FloridaCommerce and Executive Director of the Florida Harbor Pilots Association.
The confirmations come after the departure of former FMC Chairman Louis Sola at the end of June, leaving the Chairman position vacant. Sola was nominated by President Trump in 2018 and confirmed by the Senate for his role.