U.S Congress Seeks To Attract And Retain Professional Mariners

Just recently, on October 17, a hearing on crewing shortages was called by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard Subcommittee at the Capitol.

Specifically, the hearing considered the possible impact of various factors on workforce shortage, including wage levels; lifestyle challenges associated with employment in the maritime industry; and training requirements imposed by the Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping (“STCW”) Convention.

The testimonies from leaders in the maritime industry can be found at this link:

http://transportation.house.gov/hearings/hearin...

Additional hearings will be called by the House Transportation and Infrastructure Committee’s Coast Guard Subcommittee on November 17th .

The participants will include maritime associations, including OMSA, as well as labor groups and educators on maritime crewing and training issues.

Mariners now have a voice through their industry leaders. Theres still time to hear your input for constructive solutions.