US Maritime Workforce Surges: 58,000 Trainees Annually
MARAD designates 16 new maritime training institutions as Centers of Excellence.
The U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD) has designated 16 maritime training institutions as 2026 Centers of Excellence (CoE), expanding its network to 48 institutions across 87 training facilities in 28 states and territories. The move aims to bolster America’s maritime workforce, with nearly 20,000 new trainees entering the pipeline annually.
The designation, announced on September 8, 2026, underscores the Trump administration’s commitment to strengthening the nation’s maritime capabilities. U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean P. Duffy highlighted the initiative’s impact, stating that it would equip future mariners with the skills needed to support supply chains, naval construction, and commercial waterway operations.
What the New Centers of Excellence Bring to the Maritime Sector: Maritime Workforce
The newly designated institutions include the University of Michigan Department of Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering in Ann Arbor, the Northwest Maritime Center in Port Townsend, and the Chapman School of Seamanship in Stuart, Florida. These centers will join existing CoEs in training mariners for careers at sea and onshore, with a focus on technical expertise and industry resilience.
The expansion reflects the administration’s broader strategy to restore U.S. maritime dominance, as outlined in President Trump’s Executive Order. Maritime Administrator Stephen M. Carmel emphasized the economic importance of a skilled maritime workforce, noting that “the strength of America’s economy is tied directly to the resilience of our domestic fleet.".
Mohamed Khabou, Dean of the Hal Marcus College of Science and Engineering, stated that UWF is “strategically expanding its research and development efforts in areas related to watercraft and vessel engineering.".
How the Expansion Impacts the Maritime Industry and Workforce
The CoE designation is awarded for a five-year term, providing long-term stability for training programs. Institutions like the Webb Institute in Glen Cove, New York, and Bunker Hill Community College in Boston will play a critical role in delivering top-tier mariner credentials and training nuclear shipbuilders.
For aspiring mariners, the expansion offers increased access to competitive workforce programs. The next opportunity to apply for CoE designation will be in fall 2026, providing additional institutions with the chance to join the network. The designation not only enhances training capabilities but also ensures that the U.S.
A skilled maritime workforce is essential for maintaining supply chain resilience, particularly in times of crisis. As Carmel noted, the institutions designated as CoEs “are the backbone of American maritime power,” ensuring that commercial waterways remain operational and that the U.S. can respond effectively to global challenges.
The initiative also offers opportunities for veterans transitioning to civilian roles, with programs designed to leverage their existing skills. As the maritime industry continues to evolve, the CoE network will play a pivotal role in shaping the next generation of mariners and technical professionals.
“Under President Trump’s leadership, we are supercharging the maritime workforce pipeline. This designation alone brings nearly 20,000 trainees into America’s mariner training program who are preparing for a career in service to the American people. From constructing Navy warships to operating river towboats, we are partnering with elite institutions to equip our mariner workforce with the skills needed to keep our supply chains moving.”
Sean P. Duffy·U.S. Transportation Secretary
“The strength of America’s economy is tied directly to the resilience of our domestic fleet and the technical skill of our mariners. The institutions we honor today are the backbone of American maritime power. They are delivering top-tier mariner credentials, training nuclear shipbuilders, and ensuring our commercial waterways stay open in any crisis.”
Stephen M. Carmel·Maritime Administrator
The MARAD CoE network is a cornerstone of the U.S. maritime industry’s future. With a focus on innovation, technical expertise, and workforce development, the initiative ensures that America remains a leader in global maritime operations. For more information on the CoE program and how to apply, institutions are encouraged to monitor MARAD’s official channels for updates on the fall 2026 application cycle.
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