Meet the Student Crew ⚓
Aiden Trafton, Cadet 1st Assistant Engineer
Hartland, ME | Marine Engineering Technology

What got you interested in the maritime industry? What do you hope to do within the industry when you graduate?
“I heard about the school through a family ...member, and I saw all the hands-on experience I was able to gain from this school and the opportunities it’s offered. The ability to travel the world while doing something you really enjoy doesn’t come very often, so I knew I couldn’t pass it up. I hope to join a maritime union and become an engineer on either an oil tanker or a container ship."

What are you most excited for during Summer Sea Term?
“I’m excited to experience another ship and introduce the freshmen to ship life. It’s been very rewarding to help guide them through their first year at the academy and help them take their first step onto a working vessel.”

#SST #SummerSeaTerm #STATEOFMAINE #TSSSOM #MaineMaritime #CareerGoals #HandsOnLearning #CareerPath

Meet the Student Crew ⚓
Kylie Cantlon, 2nd Assistant Engineer
Burke, VA | Marine Systems Engineering (5 year)

What got you interested in the maritime industry? What do you hope to do within the industry when you graduate?
“I want to be in the Coast Guard when I graduate, as... an engineer on an icebreaker. I became interested in maritime careers during my senior year of high school when I was researching schools.”

What are you most excited for during Summer Sea Term?
“I’m excited to work on the brand-new ship during maintenance.”

#SST #SummerSeaTerm #STATEOFMAINE #TSSSOM #MaineMaritime #CareerGoals #HandsOnLearning #CareerPath

Meet the Student Crew ⚓
Alexander Powers, Third Mate, Charlie Company
Sandwich, MA | Marine Transportation Operations

What sparked your interest in the maritime industry?
“Growing up on Cape Cod near the Cape Cod Canal, there was always something magical about watching ...massive ships pass under the bridges. That made a lasting impression on me. I also have family members who attended Maine Maritime Academy and built careers in the industry.”

What are you most excited for during Summer Sea Term?
“I’m excited for the opportunity to train on our new ship and work alongside new shipmates from Texas A&M. Being part of the maiden voyage is an incredible honor—it marks the start of a new era in maritime training for both the U.S. and MMA.”

#SST #SummerSeaTerm #STATEOFMAINE #TSSSOM #MaineMaritime #CareerGoals #HandsOnLearning #CareerPath

On Monday, April 13, 2026, the Regiment of Midshipmen gathered—cheered on by their shipmates—to celebrate outstanding achievement across the Regiment. A total of 91 Midshipmen were recognized for their academic success, leadership, and the vision, effort, and tenacity that define the Regiment. ...Representatives from the Seacoast Alumni Chapter, Bangor Seadogs Alumni Chapter, the Portland Marine Society, the Class of 1972, and individual sponsors presented awards honoring these accomplishments.

Held each spring, the Regimental Awards Ceremony highlights Midshipmen who serve as models for their peers and exemplify the core values of the Regiment: honor, loyalty, and devotion to duty. 

👉 See the full list of award winners and view photos from the ceremony: https://mainemaritime.edu/student-life/regimental-program/regimental-awards-ceremony/

#MaineMaritime #RegimentOfMidshipmen #Leadership #MaritimeExcellence #FutureMariners

Meet the Student Crew ⚓
Julia Strauss, Bravo Cadet Third Mate
Mount Desert Island, ME | Marine Transportation Operations

What sparked your interest in the maritime industry?
“My father attended Maine Maritime Academy, and I’ve worked on the ocean my whole life—it’s ...all I’ve ever wanted to do. After graduation, I hope to work aboard an oil product tanker in the Gulf.”

What are you most excited for during Summer Sea Term?
“I’m looking forward to working closely with the ship’s crew to sharpen my skills as a future third mate—and to mentor the freshman class along the way.”

From family inspiration to career ambition, Julia is charting her course with purpose. 🌊

#SST #SummerSeaTerm #STATEOFMAINE #TSSSOM #MaineMaritime #CareerGoals #HandsOnLearning #CareerPath