Two Schools Named National Maritime Enhancement Institutes

Maritime Administrator Capt. William G. Schubert has designated two educational organizations as National Maritime Enhancement Institutes (NMEI). They are the Consortium for Navigation Support and Analysis (CNSA) at Marshall University in Huntington, WV, and the Global Maritime and Transportation School (GMATS) at the United States Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY. The CNSA, under the direction of the Nick J. Rahall II Appalachian Transportation Institute at Marshall University, is composed of six academic, research and professional organizations. It addresses maritime policy and implementation issues critical to efficient functioning of the industry through workforce training programs tailored for inland navigation, navigation-related academic research, and programs focused on the needs of transportation executives. It specializes in cutting-edge analytical tools and has developed effective models for funded research and technology transfer projects.

The GMATS is a self-funded institution at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy. The school's primary mission is to offer leading edge maritime education and training programs that benefit professionals in government agencies, private-sector organizations and the military. Through education, training, and research activities, GMATS is dedicated to optimizing America's economic and strategic intermodal transportation system. The school seeks to encourage trade by providing mariners and international transportation and business professionals with the requisite skills needed to operate safe, efficient, and environmentally compliant intermodal transportation systems. The NMEI program was created in 1990 to encourage non-profit institutions with focused research and education programs to contribute to advancement and innovation in the maritime industry. Designation of the new NMEIs marks a significant step in expanding the Maritime Administration's efforts to improve the maritime system for future generations through research and education.