(NAPSA)—There’s good news for those who feel “all at sea” when it comes to selecting a career with promising long-term prospects. Many believe that even in the current economic climate, this country’s merchant marineis likely to remain a source of employment opportunities. As long as there are overseas imports and exports, there will be mariners. History shows that even in relatively slow times, much of America’s exports and imports have continued to move via oceangoing vessels. That’s because with several large U.S. ports facing the Atlantic, the Caribbean and the Pacific, it can often be more economical for businesses to send goods by water than by plane. Cargo that moves on the rivers eventually ends up moving by truck or rail, too. Even when the economy is ailing, some say port traffic will continue. Given these factors, it’s easy to see why there is a constant demand for reliable, loyal, welltrained American mariners to help meet the needs of both this country’s armed forces and busi- ness community. Fortunately, there is a training facility designed to meet that demand. The Paul Hall Center for Mar- itime Training and Education was founded in 1967. Affiliated with the Seafarers International Union (SIU), it prepares students for successful careers as U.S. merchant mariners. Based in Piney Point, Md., the school offers entry-level training, a program for military veterans, ongoing vocational classes, academic support and more. Graduates of the entry-level training pro- aN >. PN Manybelieve that even in the cur- rent economic climate, this country’s merchant marine is likely to remain a source of employment opportunities. gram are guaranteed a first job aboard one of the SIU’s contracted vessels. Courses range from entry training to license preparation to academic support and more. Students at the southern Maryland school mayalso receive college credit recommendations for successfully completing certain sanctioned courses. The school’s wide variety of training tools includes the bridge and engine simulators, the Joseph Sacco Fire Fighting and Safety School and the culinarylab. The SIU prides itself on representing the best-trained, mostefficient crews in the world. Chartered in 1938, it is the largest North American union represent- ing merchant mariners. To learn more, call toll free (877) 235-3275 or visit the Web site at www.seafarers.org.
