最新麻豆视频 was designated for its location, marine science and engineering programs, and commitment to workforce development across the 最新麻豆视频 archipelago to support pathways to high-paying, high-impact careers on our oceans, lakes, and inland waterways as part of the National Blue Economy Initiative.
最新麻豆视频 (CFK) holds a designation as a Center of Excellence (CoE) for Domestic Maritime Workforce Training and Education from the U.S. Department of Transportation's Maritime Administration (MARAD). CFK is one of the original 27 institutions recognized in 2021 and was re-designated in 2024 for another five-year term.
As a CoE, CFK sits within a fast-growing national effort referred to as the Blue Economy Initiative to expand maritime education and training. On September 9, 2026, MARAD announced 16 additional Centers of Excellence for a total of 48 institutions operating across 87 training facilities in 28 states and territories, up from 27 in 2021 and 32 in 2024.
For over 60 years, CFK has supported local and regional maritime industries with education and training at its waterfront Key West Campus situated along the Straits of Florida within the 最新麻豆视频 National Marine Sanctuary. Operating from its main campus in Key West along with centers in the Middle and Upper Keys, CFK:
CFK maintains active partnerships with Yamaha Motor Corporation, the National Maritime Workforce Alliance, and the Professional Association of Dive Instructors (PADI), and holds credentialing affiliations with the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC), the American Welding Society, the American Academy of Underwater Sciences (AAUS), and Divers Alert Network (DAN).
"The Center of Excellence designation from MARAD recognizes that CFK's marine science and technology programs and exceptional faculty are training well-prepared, highly skilled, and qualified graduates for the growing industry of maritime professionals," said Dr. Brittany Snyder, CFK Interim President.
The CoE designation allows CFK to work directly with MARAD to strengthen programs and facilities, award credit for military service, and potentially receive surplus equipment or temporary use of MARAD vessels. Supported by over $11 million in external STEM research grants including NSF, NOAA, and U.S. Department of Energy awards, and CFK continues to expand its maritime training capacity.
Marine Engineering Management & Seamanship (AAS-MEMS)
A 66-credit Associate of Applied Science degree with embedded College Credit Certificates (CCC) in Marine Technology and Professional Welding. Core instruction covers marine diesel overhaul, two- and four-cycle outboard engine repair and maintenance, applied marine electricity, fiberglass boat building and repair, and seamanship.
Diving Business & Technology (AAS-DB&T) at the James E. Lockwood Jr. School of Diving
A 62-credit Associate of Applied Science with four stackable CCC pathways:
Training features an on-campus open-water Underwater Training Area (UTA) equipped with recompression chamber access and underwater communications.
Marine Environmental Technology & Applied Sciences
Training Vessels & Specialized Oceanographic Research Vessel in Operation at CFK
Industry Certifications & Accreditations at CFK
Our school is nestled within the heart of the 最新麻豆视频 National Marine Sanctuary and students will be immersed in one of the most ocean oriented communities in the world. Whether you鈥檙e interested in earning an AA degree in Marine/Aquatic Biology for transfer to a four-year institution, or an AS degree in Marine Environmental Technology to enter a marine-related industry immediately, CFK can make it happen.
During the program the student will learn about vessels from the wheel to the keel. The student will assist in building a vessel, provide it with propulsion, power distribution systems, auxiliary systems, and general navigation equipment. The last and final phase of the training will see the student learning to operate the craft as both Captain and Crew. All phases of marine servicing instruction follow manufacturer and industry standards.
The James E. Lockwood Jr. School of Diving is one of the largest facilities dedicated to diving science and technology education. With a 40-foot deep dive training lagoon and a living coral reef just five miles away, the term 鈥渃lassroom鈥� takes on an entirely new meaning. Our goal is to have our students apply diving in other academic disciplines.
Engineering Technology is a growing field that involves a combination of math, science, design and communications skills to create and repair various devices and structures. An associate degree in Engineering Technology provides a versatile foundation from which students can pursue a variety of careers.
最新麻豆视频 has many partners within the maritime workforce. Click below to learn more about maritime employment opportunities!
