MARAD seeks new applications for Centers of Excellence designation
Written by Marine Log Staff
MARAD Administrator Stephen M. Carmel. “This $35 million investment will empower our domestic maritime industry to modernize facilities, foster competitive operations, and equip the American worker with the skills needed to restore our nation’s maritime dominance.”
The U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD) has published a Notice of Opportunity inviting maritime training and educational institutions to apply for a new round of designations under its Centers of Excellence program for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education (CoE).
“Our Centers of Excellence provide the critical infrastructure to train the next generation of maritime workers and enhance our shipbuilding capabilities,” said MARAD Administrator Stephen M. Carmel. “This designation empowers our partners to recruit top talent and restore America’s maritime dominance.”
The CoE network currently includes 32 institutions in 44 cities in 17 states. They offer programs focused on training the next generation of maritime workers for careers at sea. A CoE designation is awarded for a five-year term.
MARAD says that CoEs play a vital role in supporting the maritime industry by providing workforce development, research, collaboration, promotion, and policy support. Through their individual and comprehensive efforts, the centers contribute to the growth and competitiveness of the maritime sector in the United States.
Application details: Qualified institutions can submit applications and supporting documents to [email protected].
Deadline: Applications are due by 8:00 p.m. EST on April 13, 2026.
Webinar: MARAD will host an informational webinar about the opportunity on February 19, 2026. Information will be posted on the Centers of Excellence page.
Guidance: Information on selection criteria and application guidance is available in the Federal Register notice