Hinds Community College’s Maritime Training Academy in Vicksburg has once again been named a Center of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education (CoE), the latest 2024 designation is for five years, according to the Centers of Excellence for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training.

32 institutions across the country have this designation, with maritime training locations in 17 states and Guam.

To be recognized as a CoE, training sites must offer one or more afloat or ashore career preparation tracks in the U.S. Maritime industry, meet applicable accreditation requirements and have a demonstrated record of success in maritime workforce training and education.

In response to requests from local employers, Hinds Community College has been offering deckhand training and other skills for river barge workers since 2013, thanks initially to a U.S. Department of Labor grant.

The college is currently creating a dedicated space for the programs. Phase I includes four classrooms in the front of the building, faculty offices and exterior renovation.

After Phase I The Maritime Training Center will host skills and knowledge training for high-paying jobs on the Mississippi River and other U.S. inland waterways.

Future phases of the training center will include living quarters, a galley and dining area for the students and faculty, two technical laboratories and a simulation center.

The dedicated facility along with the simulations will simulate a real-world experience that will help students prepare for a career as a mariner.

“The Center of Excellence designation adds value and credibility to our Maritime Training. I’m excited to get the Maritime Training Center open to highlight this prestigious designation and to grow our program offerings to support the Maritime industry regionally,” said David Creel, Associate Vice President of Workforce Development.