What kind of education and/or special training is needed? Does it help to attend a maritime academy?
A. Educational and special training needs are dependent on what type of position you inherit. Certainly, positions such as oceanographer, engineer, etc. require formal education beyond high school. Positions such as ship captains, requires experience, courses in seamanship as well as an exam conducted by the U.S. Coast Guard. To become a Mate, a high school diploma is required and a license from the U.S. Coast Guard. The best way to get a license is to graduate from the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy or one of the six state academies and pass a written exam. Q. What is the job outlook for maritime industry and workboats? A. There is a growing need to attract and retain highly skilled, flexible and reliable employees. There are many job opportunities within the industry. The baby boomers are expected to retire within a 5 to 10 year period thereby requiring highly skill and competent individuals to take their place. As indicated in the Mariner’s Employment Guide, “cargo volume is expected
