Linthicum Heights, MD – September 20, 2023 – The Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) is thrilled to welcome Richard (Dick) Fredricks to its Business Development team. With a wealth of experience that includes thought leadership in the advancement of maritime safety regulations, shipboard firefighting, marine salvage, and oil spill response, Dick’s addition brings a unique perspective and valuable insights to a team that includes Jon Kjaerulff, Robert Becker, Glen Paine, and Gregg Trunnell.
Eric Friend, MITAGS Executive Director, shares, “Dick Fredricks brings an unmatched level of expertise and passion to our team. His commitment to maritime safety, innovative training, and industry advancement perfectly aligns with our mission to lead the way in maritime education. We are confident that his contributions will further elevate our efforts in shaping the future of the maritime industry, both domestically and globally.”
MITAGS is deeply committed to driving excellence in safety training to strengthen our communities, with a strong focus on innovation.
In peace and war, since 1887, U.S. merchant mariners have answered the call of national security, defense, and economic imperatives. In 1972, in response to the officer shortage during the Vietnam War, MITAGS, a nonprofit trusteeship, opened its doors in Linthicum Heights, Maryland, with a new, sophisticated approach to maritime training. Its goal was to enhance the professional knowledge and skill of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (I.O.M.M.&P.) deck officers with advanced training that now included immersive, digital ship simulation. Its initial mission was to assist Able Seafarers in becoming Third Mates, Oceans. When the war ended, the program shifted focus toward continuing education. Employers that contributed to the joint labor-management trust recognized the benefit of having well-trained captains and deck officers to serve on board their ships. The concept proved so successful that training was extended to maritime pilots and non-members.
Familiar with MITAGS for many years, Dick recalls, “I knew the institute offered a broad range of maritime-related licensing, certification training, and apprenticeships. I did not realize the critical roles MITAGS safety training and operational research play in the advancement of the global wind industry, port development, and numerous other areas.”
MITAGS’ commitment to innovation continues to chart new territory. Grant awards from the Maryland Energy Administration, Maryland Works for Wind, U.S. Department of Labor, and private foundations make possible a new, state-of-the-art Center of Offshore Wind Excellence at the MITAGS East Coast campus. The labs are equipped with the latest virtual reality (VR) and augmented reality (AR) technologies. Hands-on training with the simulators integrates the use of dynamic positioning with the efficiency and maneuverability of Azipod stern drive systems. The combination of technologies is well-suited for vessel operators who navigate the demands of offshore wind farm and port environments. Dick confirms, “MITAGS’ vessel simulation technology has always been cutting-edge. The new training and technology is unparalleled.”
MITAGS is also a leader in shipboard firefighting training. The initiative is of particular interest for Dick. “Response to a shipboard fire is very different from battling an onshore fire. There are many risks and unique circumstances while aboard a vessel. Decision makers may be aware of gaps in preparedness, but may not have a clear path to increase access to training. We intend to change that through outreach, and our shipboard fire and safety programs.” Dick explains, “Our Firefighting Team Trainer course is conducted at the M/V Fire Dragon, a 120’ purpose-built marine fire training facility at the MITAGS West Coast campus in Seattle, Washington. We hope to expand our training offerings on the East Coast.”
The team at MITAGS collaborates with a diverse range of partners both coast to coast and worldwide. Vessel operators, engineering firms, pilot associations, and government and industry organizations entrust MITAGS to develop custom solutions for training and complex marine operational research.
Dick’s enthusiasm about joining MITAGS reflects the organization’s global impact in the maritime sector. “At MITAGS, it all starts with a fundamental respect for our mission. We are privileged to contribute to the safety and training of mariners around the world. The range of course offerings and extraordinary technological capabilities create new, exciting opportunities every day.”
Information about MITAGS’ Global Wind Organization (GWO) Basic Training is available here.
Learn more about MITAGS operational research and simulation capabilities.
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