Veterans, active-duty invited to “Military to Maritime” career fair March 31

Current and transitioning military from all branches of the service are invited to a “Military to Maritime” career fair on March 31. Tidewater Community College’s Center for Military and Veterans Education (CMVE) is facilitating the event, which is sponsored by the American Maritime Partnership.

Hampton Roads’ premier maritime companies, training schools, shipyards and unions will have representatives at the fair from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. at Port of Virginia – Half Moone Cruise Center, 111 Waterside Drive in Norfolk. Nearly 70 employers will be in attendance.

“The maritime industry is a growing field, and its aging workforce has to be replaced with the next generation of skilled workers,” said Bruce Brunson, executive director of the CMVE. “TCC is one of the leaders in Hampton Roads in preparing military-related students with certifications, degrees and apprenticeships leading to careers in the maritime industry. Transitioning military should take advantage of this opportunity to meet with potential employers and learn about the credentials required.”

TCC serves the largest military-related student population in the state. Active-duty military veterans and their families make up about one third of the college’s enrollment.

Gov. Terry McAuliffe; Paul D. Fraim, mayor of Norfolk; Rich Berkowitz, director, operations of American Maritime Partnership; and John Reinhart, chief executive officer of Port of Virginia; will provide opening remarks.

They will be followed by a career and job hire forum, work-boat vessel tours, a mariner credentialing seminar and a presentation on public sector and civilian employment opportunities. Crew members and industry personnel who are veterans and have made the transition to the maritime industry will offer career advice.

No prior maritime experience is necessary to attend. Advance registration is recommended.

For more information, call the CMVE at 757-822-7777.