This planning project develops a Maritime Transportation Center (MTC) with an eye toward the future development of one integrated vision for promoting and building the maritime and transportation industries within American port cities of the future. This consortium is a partnership of key leaders from maritime & transportation industries, educational institutions, government, and the military to further study the development of the MTC. MTC serves not only as a resource and education hub for ocean-related occupations, but also as a major resource for the entire maritime transportation system which includes the waterways, ports, and the network of railroads, roadways, and pipelines that connect the waterborne portions of the system to the rest of the nation. In order to facilitate the unique infrastructure needed to support anticipated port growth, this project addresses what workforce skills are necessary for the sustainability of a vibrant maritime and transportation environment, what training opportunities are currently available to develop the workforce to support these industries, what are the most effective pedagogical approaches, and what existing and emerging technologies are needed to support maritime and transportation curriculum development.
