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Video Highlights Cadets’ Work and Learning Experiences

Crowley Maritime, the largest Jones Act employer of U.S. mariners, has expanded its cadet shipping experience at sea aboard company vessels to further focus on developing the next generation of diversified leaders for the U.S. maritime industry.

As highlighted in this new video shot before the COVID-19 pandemic, two U.S. Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA) students sailed aboard the company’s combination container/Roll-On Roll-Off (ConRo) ship El Coquí, a state-of-the-art ship powered by liquefied natural gas (LNG). Deck Cadet Elizabeth Díaz and Engine Cadet Juliett Vendl talk about their responsibilities and lessons learned as they worked alongside officers, engineers and other crew members. The female cadets also explain the importance of a diverse work environment and how Crowley empowers employees do their best work, in the safest way possible.

Previously, maritime academies would screen and send cadets to Crowley for their sea years.

“In our revised sea year program, and through their respective maritime academies, students can apply directly with Crowley, giving us the opportunity to select not only the right candidates for our fleet but also those who will want to come back and work for us after graduation,” said Jenny Johnson, Crowley’s manager of marine recruiting. “Crowley’s new program focuses on diversity and inclusion. We feel very strongly that through this initiative we can have an impact on diversity and inclusion within the maritime industry.”

Student-cadets spend between 30 to 120 days sailing aboard a Crowley vessel, depending on their license goals. To be considered for a cadet shipping position, eligible students must submit an application package, through their schools, that includes a professional resume, their Merchant Mariner Credential (MMC); a valid U.S. Passport, and an essay on the value of diversity inclusion in the industry.

Crowley owns and/or operates a diverse fleet of 200 U.S.- and international-flagged vessels including container ships, petroleum transportation vessels, ship assist and escort tugs, offshore services tugs, barges, multi-purpose heavy lift ships and other vessels. Close to 2,000 students have benefited from the company’s training program. To learn more about cadet shipping with Crowley, visit crowley.com/cadet.