guarantees in life, one vocational training program actually guarantees its graduatesa job. Thetraining center, located in Piney Point, MD., is affiliated with the Seafarers International Union (SIU). Its mission is to provide the training needed for a successful career as a United States Merchant Mariner. The entry-level program is open to men and women ages 18-25, although it will accept applicants up to the age of 30 who have appropriate military or vocational experience. There is no tuition for this program and room andboardare free. Students, however are expected to cover the cost of travel to the facility, clothing and pre-entry medical screening. Established in 1967, The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education is named for the SIU’s second president. It offers 40 U.S. Coast Guard-approved courses. An engine department simulator at the school provides training for engine room watchkeeping, diesel propulsion and electrical power plants. Additionally, the simulator includes an auxiliary system, machinery simulator, plus crane and liquid cargo simulation. In 2000 the school installed a simulator for shiphandling including engine room functions, crane operations and liquid cargo procedures. Students also have opportunities to benefit from a bridge simulator which makesit possible to upgrade training in voyage planning and execution, coastal and offshore navigation, collision avoidance and search and rescue operations. Training also is available in bridge watchkeeping procedures, oil spill response management, The Paul Hall Center offers a 12-week training program in basic seamanship. port development and bridge team management. Recently the school opened a Coast Guard-approved safety school at Barber’s Point, Honolulu, Hawaii. This satellite facility trains students for new job opportunities aboard U.S.-flag cruise ships, while helping meet the increased demandfor trained mariners from Hawaii. The Seafarers International Union, Atlantic, Gulf, Lakes and Inland Waters District, AFL-CIO, represents unlicensed United States merchant mariners sailing aboard U.S.-flag vessels in the deep sea, Great Lakes and inland trades. The union also represents licensed U.S. mariners in the Great Lakes and inland sectors. Seafarers typically enjoy competitive pay, freedom in scheduling, good medical coverage for themselves and their families, a pension plan and a contract that spells out safe working conditions, vacation benefits and more. To learn more about the training center and the union, visit the Web site at www.seafarers.org, or call toll-free at 1-877-235-3275.
