33 MAY 2026 opment resources, including through K-12, community college, and vocational engagement. To close, crewing shortages put a strain on the maritime industry, but utilizing M2M and similar programs may help to alleviate some of that strain. By engaging with the federal programs noted above, employers may find qualified candidates who can transition their military sea service experience to Coast Guard-recognized merchant mariner licenses. On this National Maritime Day, let’s celebrate by recognizing the critical role of mariners to our economic stability and national defense. And going for- ward, let’s work together to cultivate, expand, and retain both credentialed mariners and a skilled maritime work- force in order to grow the economy and protect our shores. Any references to non-Federal entities herein are for illustrative and educational purposes only and should not be construed as an endorse- ment of, or preference for, any product, service, or enterprise by the U.S. Committee on the Marine Transportation System, Maritime Adminis- tration, U.S. Department of Transportation, or U.S. Government. Ashley Chappell came from NOAA to serve as exec- utive director of the U.S. Committee on the Marine Transportation System. She started out as a cartog- rapher, then migrated from nautical charts to policy, strategic planning, and budget formulation in support of safe and efficient marine transportation. In her last role at NOAA, she led the Integrated Ocean and Coastal Mapping program and co-chaired the Inter- agency Working Group on Ocean and Coastal Map- ping. This background in interagency and stakeholder relationship-building is key to her work on the CMTS. ASHLEY CHAPPELL EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR U.S. COMMITTEE ON THE MARINE TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM About the Author IMPROVE YOUR OPERATIONS Our ACTIVE interceptor system lowers roll and slamming by up to 50%. It also reduces resistance. That means lower fuel consumption and less CO² emissions. Easy to install, easy to operate. Premium technology at affordable pricing. Made of composite materials for corrosion resistance and optimum performance, Humphree Interceptor tabs are electric powered (12 or 24 volt) and made for a clean transom installation with no aft overhang to contend with around docks or gear. For any commercial Vessel, 25 feet and up. HUMPHREE CONTACTS Sean Berrie Phone: 757 374 9435 • Brett Marshall Phone: 757 374 9720 BENEFITS IMPROVED FUEL ECONOMY, UP TO 25% FASTER ACCELERATION IMPROVED VISIBILITY AND SPEED LESS ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT UP TO 50% LESS ROLL MOTIONS Automatic interceptor trim tab systems. Your new fuel saver. www.humphree.com
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