Kingsborough Community College has partnered with the Seafarers International Union (SIU), the largest North American union representing merchant mariners, to provide a unique opportunity to participate in the Unlicensed Apprenticeship and Marine Careers Training program at SIU.
This training starts with a 12-hr Introduction to Maritime Pathways class at Kingsborough, is followed by 16 weeks of basic training at SIU’s location in Piney Point, Maryland, and then goes on to provide paid work as a Seafarers International Union member with benefits and vacation time accruing after the 16 weeks of initial training.
Kingsborough provides assistance with the SIU Apprenticeship application and a scholarship award to reimburse the costs incurred to meet the requirements to participate in the program including obtaining your Merchant Mariner Credential, dental visit, travel to Piney Point, Maryland for your training, uniform, and more!
Classes, meals, and lodging are free while you are training at the SIU facility in Piney Point, MD. Graduates are also guaranteed a first job aboard one of the SIU’s contracted vessels after the first 16 weeks of training! Upon arrival at SIU you can choose the pathway you are interested in studying and training and choose to be a steward (working in the galley/ kitchen of boats), as a deckhand, or in the engine department. You will then begin training in that department. After the initial 16 week training period, you go out to work at sea for 2-3 months and begin earning $4000-$6000 a month, obtain union membership, and start accruing vacation and benefits. Once you complete the initial 2-3 months at sea you have the option to return to SIU for more training in your department resulting in increased pay.
This training and credentialing pathway program is ideal for those seeking a career in maritime that can eventually lead to jobs within Offshore Wind and a variety of other Maritime careers.
This program started in February 2024 and will have open spots available monthly throughout the rest of the year. Applications and information can be received at this time.
Duration and Location of the program:
12 hours of classes at Kingsborough Community College followed by a 16-week training at the SIU training facility in Piney Point, Maryland followed by an additional 2-3 months working and training out at sea with SIU. You are eligible to receive monthly pay and union membership after the initial 16 weeks of training. Total of 6-8 months of training with option to train and earn more afterwards.
Eligibility:
TABE test all students for 8th grade reading level. Copy of a valid U.S. passport. 18+ or older. Must be eligible to work in the United States. Cannot be on any form of probation or parole. If convicted of any crime other than a minor traffic violation you will be required to submit a final court disposition(s). Must be able to pass drug test including cannabis (THC or CBD) prior to going to SIU and while at SIU. Must be able to pass a dental exam with no cavities, pyorrhea, or periodontal disease prior to going to SIU. Must obtain and provide a Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC card) prior to going to SIU. Must be able to pass a Coast Guard level physical exam.
Benefits:
Guaranteed S.I.U. job placement upon completion of the program. Assistance with the S.I.U. Apprentice Application processes. Complete skills and training needed for a successful and prosperous career in the Maritime Field. Fees covered for Transportation Workers Identification Credential (TWIC), Merchant Mariners Credential (MMC), and United States Coast Guard (USCG) physical, drug test, yellow fever and MSC shot. Stipend to cover the cost of travel to Piney Point, MD, uniform, and more!