Get answers to some common questions about the scholarship and the Great Lakes shipping industry.
Q: 90 days on a ship seems like a long time. Are there alternative schedules?
Yes! While many mariners opt to work 90 days or more in return for more money and vacation periods that range from 4 to 6 weeks, others prefer to work less in return for shorter, more frequent vacations. Many companies offer rotations that are 30 days aboard with 14 days ashore. When deciding which companies you want to apply with, it is a good idea to contact their HR department and learn what the rotations are and apply with those that suit your preference.
Q: What is STCW, and does it apply to me?
STCW is an acronym that stands for Standards of Training, Certification, and Watchkeeping for seafarers. These standards apply to mariners who are engaged in international trade. To obtain an STCW endorsement, prospective mariners must complete specialized training through a maritime training institution. Although most mariners on the Great Lakes regularly participate in international trade with Canada, 46 CFR 15.1101 exempts vessels operating solely on the Great Lakes from the STCW convention. Therefore, prospective mariners seeking employment with Great Lakes carriers do not need to obtain STCW endorsements.
Q: Will I be joining or become part of the US Coast Guard or US Military?
No. As a U.S. Merchant Mariner, you are part of what is known as the United States Merchant Marine which describes the civilian officers and crews aboard American-flagged cargo vessels. Service in the U.S. Merchant Marine does not qualify someone for military benefits such as access to the VA or exclusive discounts or programs offered to active-duty military members or military veterans.
Association with the U.S. Coast Guard is limited to the extent that the USCG acts as the regulatory authority over the issuing of Merchant Mariner Credentials and the lawful operation of federally registered vessels.