The U.S. Senate Commerce, Science, and Transportation Committee held a nomination hearing in late October for Steve Carmel, the president’s nominee to lead the Maritime Administration (MARAD). The Senate Commerce Committee approved the nomination of Carmel on Nov. 19, sending his nomination to the full Senate for a vote.
Carmel currently serves as President of U.S. Marine Management LLC (USMMI), in Norfolk, Va. A U.S. Merchant Marine Academy graduate, he began his career as a deck officer and master with Maritime Overseas Corporation and the Military Sealift Command, later holding senior leadership roles with Maersk Line, Limited, the U.S.-flag shipping division of Maersk.
If confirmed, Carmel is expected to focus on capital access for U.S.-flag operators, shipyard modernization, and maritime workforce development—priorities closely aligned with the goals of the Passenger Vessel Association.
PVA welcomes continued attention to the strength of the U.S. maritime industry and the critical role of MARAD in supporting shipyard capacity, domestic vessel construction, and workforce readiness.
As MARAD leadership transitions, PVA will continue to advocate for programs that directly benefit the U.S.-flag passenger vessel industry, including robust funding for the Small Shipyard Grant Program, the Capital Construction Fund expansion, and initiatives that develop the next generation of skilled maritime workers.