The waterfront campus defines and distinguishes the training capabilities and student experience at Maine Maritime Academy. With the arrival of State of Maine and the construction of the new pier, the waterfront campus is in the process of a generational transformation that will reshape the world-class, hands-on education the institution is able to provide its students.

State of Maine, the third of five cutting-edge National Security Multi-Mission Vessels, will serve as the next generation training ship at the Academy, supporting both the academic development of cadets and federal humanitarian relief efforts in response to natural disasters. The ship is the Academy’s first purpose-built training vessel with a full-sized, dedicated training bridge and two full-sized, fully functional engine rooms.

On August 26, Maine Maritime Academy, the U.S. Maritime Administration (MARAD), Hanwha Philly Shipyard, and TOTE Services celebrated the State of Maine naming ceremony at Hanwha Philly Shipyard in Philadelphia.

Cadets with the President of TOTE Services Jeff Dixon

Speakers at the naming ceremony included President Lee Jae Myung of the Republic of Korea, Governor of Pennsylvania, Josh Shapiro, U.S. Senator Todd Young of Indiana, U.S. Congresswoman Mary Gay Scanlon of Pennsylvania, Acting U.S. Maritime Administrator Sang Yi, Maine Maritime Academy President Craig Johnson, and Maine Maritime Academy Regimental Commander Odegaard Fields. Former U.S. Secretary of Transportation Elaine Chao served as the ship’s co-sponsor with Senator Susan Collins, also the ship’s Godmother; both played a crucial role in securing federal funding for the vessel.

“Maine Maritime Academy is internationally recognized as a leader in maritime education, and this vessel represents a major step forward in our mission to train the world’s finest
mariners,” said Maine Maritime Academy President Craig Johnson. “As our first purpose-built training ship, State of Maine will provide world-class learning experiences for cadets pursuing unlimited tonnage licenses. It’s a game-changer for our mission and a powerful reflection of what’s possible through strong partnerships and shared vision.”

U.S. Transportation Secretary Sean Duffy had been scheduled to speak at the naming ceremony but was delayed by a cabinet meeting. In his absence, he issued the following statement, “State of Maine is more than a ship — it’s a strategic investment in the people and infrastructure that keep America’s maritime economy strong. Our cadets deserve cutting-edge tools and training to become the industry leaders who will keep our nation strong and ready when it matters most.”

Maine Maritime Academy President Craig Johnson ’91 delivers an address at the State of Maine naming ceremony

Acting Maritime Administrator Sang Yi delivered an address at the event saying, “This vessel marks a new era for American maritime power. MARAD’s mission to modernize sealift and empower the Merchant Marine hinges on relentless innovation and partnership. Together, we can build the fleet America needs to secure our future and dominate the seas.”

President Lee of Korea emphasized the importance of the strategic relationship between South Korea and the United States and the bilateral commitment to strengthening domestic shipbuilding capabilities. President Lee announced a $5 billion investment by Hanwha in Hanwha Philly Shipyard. In October, President Trump announced that the United States would build nuclear-powered submarines at Hanwha Philly Shipyard in coordination with the South Korean government.

Regimental Operations Officer Margaret Archibald ’26 attended the naming ceremony along with other members of regimental leadership. Describing the experience, Archibald said, “Touring the ship after the naming ceremony was the first time I saw State of Maine in person. Seeing the training rooms and engine spaces, I started imagining all of the possibilities for the expansion of the summer sea term learning curriculum. As an engineer, the opportunity to work with brand new automation and electrical systems means that I will enter the industry next spring prepared to work on any type of vessel.”

The Honorable Elaine Chao, the ship’s co-sponsor, arrives with State of Maine Chief Engineer Aaron Coy

Archibald added that, “Maine Maritime Academy is a special place that, for many reasons, develops good people and good sailors, and I am grateful for the opportunity to have represented the student body at the State of Maine naming ceremony.”

Immediately following the naming ceremony, State of Maine encountered propulsion shaft and stern tube bearing issues during dockside trials. The ship was subsequently drydocked in September.

During drydocking, the tail shaft, stern tube bearing, bearing carriers, and other associated components were removed for analysis and replacement or repair. At the time of printing, State of Maine is pier side at Rhoades Industries Pier 6 in Philadelphia with temporary plates over the stern-tube.

An additional drydocking will be necessary to facilitate the installation of a reconditioned tail shaft, stern tube bearings, and associated propulsion components. Expected delivery to MARAD/TOTE Services is now the first quarter of 2026, following repairs, root cause analysis, and additional dock trials to prove the efficacy of the repairs.█

All Hands for a Bright Future

By: Meagan Doucette ’21, Third Mate, State of Maine

This past August, I had the opportunity to attend the naming ceremony for NSMV III, State of Maine at Hanwha Philly Shipyard in Philadelphia. It was an extraordinary day for the Maine Maritime Academy community as it marked a new chapter in the school’s storied history. During the ceremony, American and South Korean dignitaries spoke of the importance of shipbuilding in America and the positive impact of the NSMV program on future seafarers. There was a sense of camaraderie among attendees as we celebrated this exciting milestone.

The group of Midshipmen who attended played a significant role in the events of the day. Unsurprisingly, they operated with great professionalism and poise as they mingled with respected politicians and industry leaders. The afternoon ended with a speech from Midshipman Odegaard Fields in which he described the history of the NSMV program and leaders who have played vital roles in its success. He described the mission of Maine Maritime Academy and the impact of the institution on current and former students. MMA was well represented that day; our presence was impactful and impressive. Perhaps the most impressive were our students. The ship’s crew was very proud of them on this day.

As a Maine Maritime Academy graduate and current crew member, I feel a deep sense of responsibility in ensuring that MMA maintains the level of excellence it has displayed for generations. A state-of-the-art training ship will enhance our ability to train our deck and engine cadets in modern systems. It will provide ample classroom space and resources which will serve various other academic programs at MMA. We are excited to collaborate with staff, faculty, and students as we utilize this incredible asset.

I, along with my fellow crew members, have invested our time and energy into this project. Collectively, we have spent hundreds of days away from home, training and readying ourselves for the future. During the past year, we have worked with our counterparts at SUNY Maritime College and Massachusetts Maritime Academy in an effort to prepare for the delivery of State of Maine. Having access to NSMV sister ships Empire State and Patriot State has been crucial to our preparation. Most recently, we have been in Philadelphia at Hanwha Philly Shipyard observing as the ship nears completion. We have a shared vision, full of possibilities for our students, and we have remained committed to capitalizing on this moment to take MMA’s shipboard training to the next level.

This program has provided a unique professional opportunity for me, and I have been fortunate to work alongside intelligent, steadfast colleagues during this period of flux. Our routines were
upended as we worked remotely. We were no longer interacting with students during weekly maintenance. We lived in apartments in Philadelphia while MMA cadets completed summer sea term, something we look forward to yearly. Although this stage in delivery was expected, we felt a loss of connection with the MMA community. As we enter the next stage, we are excited to reconnect and help usher in a new era for the school we love. This ship belongs to everyone, and we should be very proud of what it represents.

Students looking at the engines

In October, Maine Maritime Academy Chief Financial Officer Janet Waldron, Director of Communications Michael Dickerson, Associate Professor Aaron Kingsbury, and Associate Professor Steven Baer attended the International Association of Maritime Universities (IAMU) Annual General Assembly (AGA25). The event was hosted by the Academy of Maritime Education and Training outside Chennai, India.

Maine Maritime Academy is one of seven founding members of IAMU, a global consortium of maritime education institutions that has grown to more than 80 members worldwide. The Academy is currently serving a two-year term representing North and South America on the IAMU International Executive Board (IEB) as head of the Finance Committee.

The IEB serves as IAMU’s primary decision-making body, deliberating on topics such as global maritime curricula, institutional policies and priorities, and the implications of emerging technologies in the maritime sector including artificial intelligence, autonomous vessels, and alternative fuels in the context of decarbonization.

During the IEB meeting, Associate Professor of Arts and Sciences Aaron Kingsbury presented an interim report on an Organizational Development Project for which he and project coordinator, Chair and Professor of Martine Transportation Ender Asyali, have received an IAMU grant. Asyali and Kingsbury, along with their collaborators from Istanbul Technical University Faculty of Maritime, propose integrating representatives from maritime industry associations as an advisory committee within the IEB framework. The team will present their final report at the next IEB meeting in Split, Croatia in April 2026.

Reflecting on the conference, Kingsbury said, “As one of MMA’s representatives at the IAMU Conference in Chennai, I had the opportunity to engage with colleagues from numerous maritime universities. Many expressed strong interest in developing collaborative initiatives with MMA, our faculty, and our students. The potential for partnership is exciting!”

Associate Professor of Marine Science Steven Baer

Following the two-day IEB meeting, the 25th IAMU Annual General Assembly was held from October 14 to 18. Nearly 150 participants from more than 40 countries, including academic and government leadership, professors, researchers, industry representatives, and students, presented analysis on a wide range of topics related to maritime education and the global maritime sector.

Associate Professor of Marine Science Steven Baer presented on the rapidly changing environmental conditions in the Arctic, with particular focus on sea ice decline. Baer discussed the implications for shipping routes, geopolitics, and environmental risks, offering recommendations for how maritime curricula might evolve to more effectively prepare students.

Describing the event, Waldron noted, “The Annual General Assembly offered a tremendous opportunity for collaboration, sharing of academic learning, and discussions regarding issues and opportunities across member institutions, with the potential for multiple international partnerships. The Academy’s faculty presentations were applauded and recognized by the IAMU International Executive Board and praised by conference attendees. AMET was a very gracious host with the Nippon Foundation’s strategic support to enable a dialogue and deep exchange on critical maritime issues confronted by all members.”

“The Annual General Assembly offered a tremendous opportunity for collaboration, sharing of academic learning, and discussions regarding issues and opportunities across member institutions, with the potential for multiple international partnerships.”
— CFO Janet Waldron

As a result of the IAMU event, the Academy’s administration is holding multiple discussions with several domestic and international institutions including Satakunta University of Applied Sciences, Finland, what is now Cal Poly Maritime Academy, Massachusetts Maritime Academy, Caribbean Maritime University, Jamaica, AMET University, India, and several others regarding opportunities for enhanced collaboration.

In early December, Satakunta University of Applied Sciences Professor Minna Keinänen-Toivola visited the Academy to share her expertise on icebreakers, the Icebreaker Collaboration Effort between the United States, Canada, and Finland, and the possibility of student and faculty exchange between our two colleges. During her visit, she gave a guest lecture in Professor Steven Baer’s ocean studies class, attended senior research poster sessions, and met with leadership to discuss future opportunities for cooperation.

Aaron Kingsbury, Janet Waldron, Steven Baer, and Michael Dickerson

She indicated, “Collaboration between Maine Maritime Academy and Satakunta University of Applied Sciences offers an exceptional opportunity to advance education, research, and innovation in the maritime sector. We share a strong interest in the Arctic regions, where sustainability, safety, and skills development are critical for the future.”

“Maine Maritime Academy and Satakunta University of Applied Sciences expect to sign an MOU this spring to formally recognize our cooperation.”

While international engagement is a hallmark of IAMU, AGA25 also provided an opportunity for the U.S. State Maritime Academies to connect. Cal Poly Maritime Associate Vice President and Academics Lead Dinesh Pinisetty said, “As a first-time attendee of the IAMU meeting, I was inspired by the immense potential of global collaboration to address critical maritime challenges. It also reinforced how vital it is for all U.S. State Maritime Academies to unite as one team—revitalizing our industry, driving innovation, and shaping the next generation of the maritime workforce.”

Associate Professor of Arts and Sciences Aaron Kingsbury

Massachusetts Maritime Academy Professor of International Maritime Business Paul Szwed echoed this sentiment, saying, “While sometimes it takes traveling halfway around the world to find an opportunity to talk to your neighbors, it should not have to be that way. Our US maritime academies share common missions, opportunities, and challenges. I think the last time we had a combined academic conference was prior to the pandemic. Let’s figure out ways to collaborate and collectively benefit from each other’s perspectives and experience.”

During the closing ceremony, AGA25 program editor Deepa Rajesh praised the “extraordinary exchange of ideas, knowledge, and global perspectives that truly embodies the spirit of the International Association of Maritime Universities.” She concluded by sharing a Sanskrit proverb: “Knowledge is a treasure neither stolen by thieves nor taken by kings and does not diminish but grows forever.”█