KINGS POINT, N.Y., September 25, 2013 — Today, maritime professionals and hiring managers from 42 companies, federal agencies, and maritime-related organizations participated in the United States Merchant Marine Academy’s (USMMA) annual career fair, Sea Fair 2013, held in O’Hara Hall.

The event, coordinated by the Department of Professional Development and Career Services, introduced maritime unions, vessel owners and operators, drillships and rigs, federal shipyards and agencies to the Regiment of Midshipmen. The 500 or more midshipmen who participated were introduced to opportunities for military, federal and maritime service.

The company representatives who travelled from as far away as Alaska expressed a very strong desire to hire USMMA graduates.  Mr. Tom Lamm, Manager of Fleet Development at Vane Brothers said, “We return to USMMA each year because we know that Kings Point graduates make excellent officers.  We know that when we hire a Kings Pointer we can expect a well-trained, safety-conscious professional, who will become a leader as his or her career progresses.”

The Academy maintains near 100 percent job placement, annually.  Commander Preston DeJean, Assistant Dean for Academic Support Programs was extremely pleased by the number of participants offering obligation-fulfilling employment.  “Having so many companies collectively at one event presents the midshipmen with grand opportunities to engage in meaningful, career enhancing work,” said DeJean.