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UPDATE: DOT Takes Steps to 'Wind Down' GMATS

Published Nov 20, 2012 3:53 PM by The Maritime Executive

Shocking news surfaced today regarding extreme structural changes within the Global Maritime and Transportation School (GMATS).  Officials from DOT and MARAD have indicated that the program at GMATS will be closed as a Non-Appropriated Funded Instrumentality (NAFI) as of July 2012, and will thereafter be transitioned into a new 501(c)(3) non- profit organization.

MarEx reached out to the Department of Transportation, and was provided a statement from Maureen Knightly, DOT’s Deputy Director for Public Affairs. 

Knightly said, “The U.S. Department of Transportation and the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy are committed to creating and serving a maritime transportation system that addresses 21st century challenges.  As part of this commitment and in response to specific recommendations from the U.S. Government Accountability Office (GAO), the Academy is taking steps to wind down the Global Maritime and Transportation School (GMATS) and determine the Academy’s role in continuing education.”

The restructuring will cease no later than July 31st, 2012, and Knightly from DOT has confirmed that as a first step in the process they will be making changes to the configuration of GMATS' Board of Directors.  Knightly said, "These changes are necessary to avoid any potential conflicts among competing business interests and to adapt to an evolving maritime industry."  

She also added that, "GMATS Employees will continue to play a key role in ensuring the orderly wind down of GMATS.  They will also play an essential role in helping the school meet its remaining customer commitments."

GMATS was organized to serve as a continuing education program at the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy, and has operated for the advancement of the Academy catering to the military, NOAA, and maritime industry.  Thousands of maritime professionals attend programs at GMATS each year, and it employs 30 full-time employees, and 213 part-time employees. 

More news surrounding the big changes at GMATS will be provided as it develops.