Anchored in Excellence

Recognizing its leadership in providing exceptional training for the maritime industry, NWTC has been honored with the prestigious designation as a 2024 Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education (CoE).

Awarded by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration (MARAD), this distinction demonstrates the value that NWTC provides to the nation by developing and preparing students for careers in the maritime industry.

"We are thrilled to receive this designation and proud of the influence our institution, alumni, and collaborators have had in the maritime industry. NWTC is committed to maintaining this progress and ensuring world-class training for our students to excel in this expanding field," stated NWTC President, Dr. Kristen Raney.

NWTC joins a select group of 32 maritime training locations across the United States and Guam, in receiving the 2024 CoE. The designation will enable the College to enhance and expand its technical training in the maritime industry, ensuring graduates remain skilled and competitive in their roles.

“Our Centers of Excellence designations recognize the high standards of maritime education and training provided by these organizations,” said Maritime Administrator, Ann Phillips. “These institutions play a critical role in providing domestic mariners with the expertise needed to best serve the maritime industry.”

This marks the second CoE designation bestowed by MARAD, and NWTC holds both designations for 2021 and 2024.

Over the years, the College has played an integral role in the growth of the region’s shipbuilding industry with initiatives such as:

• Train nearly 15,000 new hires and incumbent workers through the North Coast Marine Manufacturing Training Center®, a cutting-edge facility launched in 2012.
• Provide customized maritime training for industry businesses across the region, including a recent expanded partnership with Fincantieri Bay Shipbuilding, Wisconsin’s largest shipbuilding employer.
• Enhance workforce development through NWTC’s active memberships with North Coast Marine Manufacturing Alliance and National Maritime Workforce Alliance.

For additional information on the designation, visit the Centers of Excellence homepage.