University Of Vermont News

The November edition of Marine News magazine highlighted a selection of the most notable American newbuilds delivered of 2023—from a first-of-its-kind green towboat, to the lead vessel in a series of game-changing ships to train U.S. mariners.Empire StateAs the lead vessel in a series of five new training ships being constructed to serve America's state maritime academies, Empire State is easily one of the most important U.S.-built vessels delivered in recent memory.Built by Philly Shipyard for the U.S.

Derecktor Shipyards NY in Mamaroneck, N.Y. announced it has delivered a new hybrid research catamaran to the University of Vermont (UVM). The innovative vessel, Marcelle Melosira, will serve as a floating classroom and laboratory, enabling advanced research operations and hands-on educational programs.Designed by Chartwell Marine and built in collaboration with UVM and Chartwell, the 64-foot research catamaran has been crafted to fulfill the functions outlined by UVM’s Rubenstein School of Environment & Natural Resources.

The University of Vermont has ordered a new research vessel featuring an emissions-reducing electric power and propulsion system.The 64-foot aluminum catamaran, designed by Chartwell Marine and currently under construction at Derecktor Shipyards, will be equipped with a hybrid-electric power and propulsion system supplied and integrated by BAE Systems. The newbuilt is set for launch in April 2022.According to BAE Systems, its HybriGen Power and Propulsion system will help reduce both carbon emissions and the use of fuel by the vessel…

Joe Hudspeth is the Director of Business Development for Global Marine at BAE Systems in Endicott, N.Y. BAE Systems offers complete, efficient propulsion and auxiliary power systems utilizing electric technology. Hudspeth has been involved with maritime sales, marketing and product development since 2000. He currently serves as a regional co-chairman for the Passenger Vessel Association, is a judge for the Worldwide Ferry Safety Association student design competition, and frequently speaks and writes on maritime and ferry related issues. Hudspeth lives in Bellingham, Wash.

The University of Vermont (UVM) has ordered what is touted as the first hybrid research vessel, a project which brings together Derecktor Shipyards, BAE Systems and Chartwell Marine.The 19-meter catamaran will be designed for low-emission, low-fuel-burn operations and is set for launch in April 2022. Chartwell Marine’s hybrid design, which is powered by two Cummins QSB 6.7m 306hp diesel engines and two BAE AC traction motors, will provide the University with a new research and instruction platform to facilitate its advanced research operation.

Austal celebrated the christening of Expeditionary Fast Transport (EPF) the future USNS Burlington (EPF 10) with a ceremony at its state-of-the-art shipbuilding facility this morning. Burlington is the tenth of 12 EPFs that Austal has under contract with the U.S. Navy with a combined value of over $1.9 billion. “Austal is excited to get Burlington one step closer to joining the fleet” said Austal USA President Craig Perciavalle. Rear Adm. Dee L. Mewbourne, Commander, Military Sealift Command, spoke at today’s event. “T-EPFs are operating around the world supporting maritime security operations, humanitarian assistance/disaster relief, logistics support, and multiple international and joint exercises,” said Mewbourne. The ship’s sponsor, Mrs.

Maersk Line North America has named Gordon Dorsey as Vice President of Global Contract Execution for U.S. Military and Government Cargo Services effective July 1, 2011. In his new role, he will be responsible for ensuring effective and efficient execution of U.S. Military and Government cargo business throughout the Maersk Line global organization. Mr. Dorsey has been the Regional Manager of North American Inland Operations since 2008. He joined Maersk in 2004 and previously held positions in Corporate Communications and Health, Safety and Environment Compliance for the organization. Prior to joining Maersk, he was a member of the management team at the Exelon Dresden Nuclear Power Station and he completed a career in the U.S. Navy at the rank of Captain.

Navico, parent company to the Lowrance, Simrad Yachting and B&G brands, announced the hiring of two new Regional Sales Managers, Chris Melena and Russ Stevens. Melena and  Stevens will drive sales and support dealers, distributors and retail customers in the Great Lakes and New England regions, respectively. Each Sales Manager has over a decade of experience in the marine industry and brings a wealth of talent to the Navico sales team. Prior to joining Navico, Melena was a Regional Sales Manager with Raymarine in their Great Lakes territory. He entered the marine industry in 1993 and has held positions at Captain’s Marine Supply and West Marine. Mr. Melena grew up boating on Lake Erie and is an experienced sailor. He is a graduate of Miami University and resides in Catawba Island, Ohio.

Maritime Administrator Captain William G. Schubert announced the appointment of Robert B. Ostrom to serve as Chief Counsel for the Maritime Administration. He will provide counsel and advice for handling all legal matters with the agency. "I'm pleased to welcome Bob to MARAD's leadership team," Schubert said. Ostrom will supervise the activities of MARAD'S Office of Chief Counsel, which includes five divisions focusing on general and international law, maritime assistance programs, ship financing contracts, legislation, and litigation. Additionally, the Office of Chief Counsel drafts proposed maritime legislation, executive orders and reports to Congressional and administrative offices and committees.

Veson Nautical announced at the 23rd Asia-Pacific Petroleum Conference (APPEC) the opening of its newest location in Singapore and the addition of Jesse DiIanni, who will be leading the company’s project management team. Veson’s staff and location expansions are part of its ongoing Customer Care Program, which includes training, staff and post-implementation initiatives designed to provide enhanced support and services to its customer base. Jesse DiIanni, Veson’s Project Manager, has an understanding of project lifecycles, customer management, and product implementations. Prior to joining Veson, Jesse was Project Manager for MFC Global Investment Systems, which is part of John Hancock.

Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) honored its best and brightest at a ceremony held in early November. The college formally recognized alumni success and achievement, student academic success, and faculty achievement at its annual Celebration of Achievement on Thursday, Nov. 9, 2006. Included among those recognized were three outstanding college alumni. All were inducted into the college’s Wall of Honor. Initiated in 1997, the college’s Wall of Honor was created to recognize alumni, who, through achievements in professional and civic life, have brought honor to themselves and to Maine Maritime Academy. Inductees are selected from nominations made at large by alumni and the public.