The U.S. Department of Transportation has officially designated Mississippi Gulf Coast Community College (MGCCC) as a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education (CoE) for the year 2024. This prestigious recognition underscores MGCCC’s commitment to providing exceptional training and education in support of the nation’s maritime industry.

The designation of CoEs encompasses 50 existing and newly established maritime training locations spanning 17 states and Guam. The initiative aims to bolster the nation’s maritime workforce by promoting and supporting post-secondary maritime training programs, ensuring a highly skilled workforce that contributes to both economic growth and national security.

U.S. Transportation Secretary Pete Buttigieg highlighted the significance of the CoE program, stating, “Our country depends on a highly skilled mariner workforce to strengthen both our economy and our national security. The 32 Centers of Excellence we’re designating this year will promote training opportunities outside of traditional four-year degree programs and will bring more Americans into these great maritime careers.”

The CoE designation acknowledges the outstanding value MGCCC provides to the nation by preparing students for demanding careers within the maritime industry. Graduates of MGCCC have consistently made remarkable contributions to the field, a testament to the superior academic and professional training received while attending the institution.

Dr. Mary S. Graham, MGCCC president, expressed her commitment to maritime education, stating, “We are honored to receive this prestigious designation as a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education. This recognition underscores our dedication to providing high-quality education and training that prepares our students for successful careers in the maritime industry. We are proud of our graduates’ contributions to this vital sector and look forward to continuing our mission of excellence in maritime education.”

For additional information, a full list of designees, and a searchable interactive map identifying designee locations, please visit the Centers of Excellence homepage at https://www.maritime.dot.gov/education/maritime-centers-excellence.