Northwestern Michigan College’s Great Lakes Maritime Academy (GLMA) cadets got hands-on training in July aboard the donated tugboat Robinson Bay, the first vessel the academy has acquired in more than 20 years, expanding job opportunities for graduates of the nation’s only freshwater maritime academy as well as reducing operating costs.

By the end of the summer, up to 36 cadets will complete a 30-day training program aboard the Robinson Bay, earning their mate of tow vessel license endorsement (TOAR). Most of the training in ship handling, watch standing and tow vessel operation will be conducted in West Bay, with additional trips to Mackinac Island. GLMA’s shoreside simulator, located at NMC’s Great Lakes Campus, also will be tapped so cadets can meet requirements.

“The acquisition of the vessel enables GLMA cadets to gain instruction in tow vessel ship handling and operations, and earn tow vessel license endorsements, in addition to unlimited third mate or unlimited third assistant engineer. This will substantially increase their employment opportunities,” said GLMA Superintendent Jerry Achenbach. There are more than 5,000 tow vessels in the U.S. fleet, compared to 350 deep draft vessels where cadets traditionally have sought employment, he said.

Donated by the U.S. Great Lakes St. Lawrence Seaway Development Corporation, the acquisition of the Robinson Bay will save GLMA tow vessel leasing costs that have exceeded $50,000 per year. The academy has leased a tugboat every summer since 2020.

Having the vessel available year-round also means GLMA could offer additional credentials. Plans for later this year include working with the U.S. Coast Guard on approval for engine cadets to earn Designated Duty Engineer (DDE) license endorsement.

The goal is to eventually develop this into a two-year associate degree program. GLMA currently offers a bachelor’s degree in maritime technology. Also in development is a plan for a one-day event for professional mariners who have the 30 days sea time but need to complete the Tow Officer Assessment Record, which GLMA faculty can assess.

This article was originally published here.