MMA and MPS to Offer Inernational Security Education

Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) and Maritime Protective Services (MPS) have recently established a collaborative working relationship to offer maritime security education courses for company security officers, ship security officers, and facility security professionals. The announcement was made earlier today in conjunction with the opening of the U.S. Maritime Security Expo at the Jacob Javits Convention Center in New York City. As exhibitors at the Expo, MMA and MPS will be on hand to address industry inquiries and provide details about their joint programming. Maine Maritime Academy, a U.S. public college established in 1941, is recognized worldwide for its leadership and innovation in maritime education. Maritime Protective Services, through its Total Security Solution programs, has focused its corporate vision on the fine points of maritime security in design and development of its series of comprehensive port, company, and ship security programs. Together, the agencies plan to offer security courses beginning in January 2004. "This collaboration with MPS allows Maine Maritime to address the security education needs of port authorities, ship operators, and ship owners on an international basis," said Dr. John Barlow, Maine Maritime Academy's vice president of academic affairs. "All port authorities and ship owners and operators must meet the demands of the new International Ship and Port Security Code (ISPS). The code, which goes into effect on July 1, 2004, represents a formidable task for commercial shipping and ports as they endeavor to comply with the new regulations." According to Glenn Jackson, president of MPS, "We envision that these courses will assist the industry by making maritime training in seafaring security more readily accessible. We look forward to growing with Maine Maritime Academy in this area and offering responsive educational services as industry needs expand." Maritime security courses will be offered through Maine Maritime Academy's division of Continuing Education located at the college's Castine, Maine, campus. Courses will also be available throughout the world to clients of MPS. All students successfully completing course requirements will receive certification from Maine Maritime Academy for meeting ISPS Code requirements and those of the college's continuing education unit.