What’s Up at MITAGS?
STCW Refresher vs. Revalidation: Main Differences
STCW Refresher vs. Revalidation: Main Differences Maintaining a valid Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping (STCW) endorsement is essential for every mariner operating vessels internationally. It confirms that the holder meets the competency and safety standards set by the International Maritime Organization (IMO). One area that often creates confusion is the difference between an STCW Refresher […]
VIP Conference Guest Announcement
Rear Admiral Benjamin Nicholson to Attend Mariners for America Conference 2026 MITAGS is proud to announce that Rear Admiral Benjamin Nicholson, Commander of the U.S. Navy’s Military Sealift Command (MSC), will attend the upcoming Mariners for America Conference 2026. Military Sealift Command serves as the operational arm of the U.S. Navy responsible for strategic sealift […]
Mariners for America Conference 2026 Advances the White House Maritime Action Plan
On February 13, 2026, the White House released the Maritime Action Plan, outlining a national strategy focused on sealift readiness, maritime workforce development, industrial base resilience, and stronger public-private collaboration. The Mariners for America Conference 2026 directly supports these priorities. As a leading maritime industry conference, the event brings together government agencies, maritime operators, labor […]
AB to Mate Program at MITAGS: Your Path from Able Seaman to Licensed Mate
Advancing from Able Seaman (AB) to Mate is one of the most important career milestones for professional mariners. The AB to Mate Program at MITAGS (Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies) is designed to help experienced deck personnel meet STCW-2010 training requirements, qualify for Officer in Charge of a Navigation Watch (OICNW), and move […]
One Rung at a Time: Why Pilot Ladder Training Could Save a Life
Every pilot transfer is a leap of faith — literally. With just a few feet of rope, wood, and careful rigging between them and the ocean below, maritime pilots regularly face one of the most dangerous parts of their job before they’ve even set foot on a vessel. Unfortunately, the risks aren’t just theoretical. Despite […]
New Course at MITAGS-West: 2-Day Z-Drive Tractor Tug Training
Z-Drive Tractor Tug Training Azimuthing Stern Drive (ASD), or Z-Drive tractor tugs, have revolutionized the towing industry by offering unmatched control and safety. But they don’t behave like conventional tugs, which is why dedicated azimuth stern drive training is essential. Operators must understand how these vessels handle under different loads, currents, and environmental conditions. Without […]