Longstanding Maritime Leader Invests in the Next Generation of Vessel Operations Professionals

Maine Maritime Academy is pleased to announce the creation of the Vane Brothers Fellowship Program, which will offer three years of financial support to students pursuing degrees in Vessel Operations and Technology.

President Craig Johnson ’91 said, “We’re grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this mutually beneficial relationship for all involved: Vane Brothers, the Academy, and our students. Facilitating relationships with employers is a fundamental aspect of an education at the Academy and that benefits both students and employers. We have one of the premier limited license programs, Vessel Operations and Technology, and Vane Brothers is a leader in the industry, so the connection is natural.”

The Vane Brothers Fellowship Program agreement covers a term of five years beginning with the first cohort to be announced during the 2025-26 academic year. Vane Brothers fellows will receive $10,000 of funding per year with a total financial commitment to the Academy of $360,000.

Vane Brothers will also provide co-op billets for at least six students per year as a part of the agreement. Additionally, although an employment commitment is not expected of those who receive a fellowship, Vane Brothers will offer “direct employment opportunities” to graduates.

Vane Brothers and Maine Maritime Academy see the partnership as mutually beneficial for several reasons, including deepening the connection between the Vessel Operations and Technology program and one of the industry leaders in maritime transportation on the East Coast.