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Grow • Develop • Sustain

Help Shape the Future of the U.S. Maritime Workforce

The U.S. maritime industry is preparing for a period of significant growth, and the need for a strong, sustainable American mariner workforce has never been greater. The Mariners for America Conference at MITAGS will bring together vessel operators, unions, academies, training institutions, regulators, and industry leaders to explore bold ideas and practical solutions for attracting, developing, and retaining mariners. 

Why Attend

  • Stay ahead of maritime industry trends and workforce changes.

  • Gain insights that can elevate your career and organization.

  • Be part of a growing national maritime movement.

  • Help strengthen America’s maritime future.

  • Build meaningful connections with leaders across the U.S. maritime sector.

Registration opens December 1st, 2025

  • Early Bird Price:  $900 (Dec 1 – Feb 28)
  • Standard Price:  $1,000 (after Feb 28)
Download Agenda Here

Call for Speakers

Do you have insights, expertise, or strategies that can help strengthen the American mariner workforce? This national event will bring together vessel operators, unions, maritime academies, training institutions, and industry leaders to discuss how we can grow, develop, and sustain a strong U.S. maritime workforce for the future. We’re looking for dynamic speakers to share their knowledge on topics such as: 

  • Recruiting and training the next generation of mariners
  • Career development and mentorship
  • Mental health and well-being at sea
  • Workforce readiness and future skills
  • Shore-based career pathways

Presentations may also address other relevant topics that align with the conference’s mission to support mariner recruitment, development, and well-being.

Session Format

  • Each speaking engagement includes:
  • 30 minutes for your presentation
  • 15 minutes for audience Q&A and discussion
  • Complimentary registration for selected speakers (travel and lodging not included)

Submission Details

  • Proposal Deadline: December 31, 2025
  • Notification of Acceptance: January 16, 2026
  • How to Submit: Email your proposal — including a title, session description, 2–3 learning objectives, and a short bio to Events@mitags.org. 
Submit Proposals Here

Call for Sponsors

  • Support the mission to grow, develop, and sustain the U.S. mariner workforce by becoming a conference sponsor. 
  • Sponsorship gives your organization visibility among key maritime stakeholders, including vessel operators, maritime schools, regulators, and industry leaders. 
  • Your support will help us deliver a high-quality conference while positioning your brand as a leader in the maritime industry. 
  • To learn more about sponsorship opportunities, please contact us at Events@mitags.org.

Sponsorship & Exhibit Opportunities

We invite partners and organizations to support the conference through sponsorships and exhibits that help advance mariner recruitment, development, and well-being.

Sponsorship Levels

  • Pilot Sponsor – $4,000
    Includes signage at registration, logo in the event program, free exhibit table, and recognition in all pre-conference communications.

  • Master Sponsor – $2,000
    Includes signage at registration, logo in the event program, free exhibit table, and recognition in all pre-conference communications.

  • Navigator Sponsor – $1,000
    Includes signage at registration, logo in the event program, free exhibit table, and recognition in all pre-conference communications.

Learn More About Sponsorship

Additional Opportunities

  • Exhibit Table: $500
    Nonprofits and government organizations — please contact Events@mitags.org for reservations.

  • Lanyard Sponsor: $500
    Sponsor is responsible for producing and shipping lanyards to the conference venue.

  • Reception Sponsor: $2,000
    Includes signage at the reception.
    Sponsorship at $2,000 would include credit as a Master-Level Sponsor.

  • Dinner Sponsor: $2,000
    Includes logo placement on all dinner tables.
    Sponsorship at $2,000 would include credit as a Master-Level Sponsor.

Apply to Become a Sponsor

Stay On Campus for the Mariners for America Conference

Make the most of your conference experience by staying right on-site at the Maritime Conference Center (MCC) — home of MITAGS and the Mariners for America Conference. Staying on campus keeps you close to every keynote, workshop, and networking opportunity while enjoying the comfort and convenience of being on-site.

Reserve Your Room