Gregg Trunnell, Director of the Pacific Maritime Institute (PMI), announced its new Federal Communications Commission (FCC) three-day license preparation course for the Global Maritime Distress and Safety Systems (GMDSS) Radio Operators license. The National GMDSS Task Force has recently stated that fishing vessels over 300 tons are considered SOLAS vessels and require GMDSS equipment, however, GMDSS mandated training by STCW is not required. Additionally, the FCC has required that all fishing vessels with designated GMDSS equipment must have at least two individuals onboard with GMDSS licenses when operating in U.S. coastal waters.