Getting Smart About Job Training (NAPSA)—Even in a tough economy, there are ways to help ensure that an education paysoff. For instance, one of America’s most-storied vocational schools guarantees its graduates initial employment in a field steeped in potential and tradition. Plus, tuition, room and board are free for entry-level students. The school prepares men and womenfor a career with the U.S. Merchant Marine. The merchant marine is composed of Americans who crew U.S.-flag commercial vessels on the deep seas, inland waterways and Great Lakes. Although often referred to as the nation’s “fourth arm of defense,” America’s mariners are civilians working for private companies and are not membersof the armed forces. While some merchant mariner vessels are under contract to transport troops and military goods, the U.S. Merchant Marine also plays a crucial role in America’s peacetime economy by crewing the many vessels involved in international trade. U.S.-flag ships can be seen regularly in the major ports of the world. Charting A Career The school, called The Paul Hall Center for Maritime Training and Education, is based in Piney Point, Md. andis affiliated with the Seafarers International Union (SIU). Classes, meals and lodging are free for those in the unlicensed apprentice program, and One vocational school pays room and board and guaranteesa first job. graduates of the entry-level training program are guaranteed a first job aboard one of the SIU’s contracted vessels. From there, mariners can chart a career in any of the three shipboard departments—deck, engine or steward. They may even work their way up to captain. Merchant mariners sail on all types of vessels, including containerships, tankers, bulkers, passenger vessels, tugs and more. History Of Success In the school’s 42 years of maritime training, 22,000 apprentices have completed the program and 238,000 training certificates have been awarded for deck, engine, steward and safety courses. In addition, two college-degree programs in nautical science and engineering have been approved by the state of Maryland. For more information, visit www.seafarers.org/phc or call (877) 235-3275.
