Maritime training program gets cash injection
Tariffs or not, commerce and logistics are still highly dependent on the sea. The U.S. state with an arm in that pool is preparing to train the next generation of maritime workers to make sure that part of the supply chain is in good hands.
Massachusetts Maritime Academy (MMA) a top-ranked public university with undergraduate degree programs focusing on science, engineering, technology, math, and business that blend academics and experiential learning, launched a partnership with Bourne High School (BHS) in late January.
The Academy and Bourne High School were among 31 college and high school partnerships throughout the Commonwealth to receive Early College grants from the Healey-Driscoll Administration to begin a Designated Early College program in the Fall of 2026. Early college programs are a key part of the administration’s “Reimagining High School” initiative, ensuring Massachusetts students are prepared for college or careers when they graduate high school.
The programs are intentionally designed to empower students traditionally underrepresented in higher education. Massachusetts Early College programs blend elements of high school and college to provide students with the opportunity to experience and complete college level academic coursework on a clearly defined pathway while at the same time gain exposure to a variety of career opportunities.
With the support of the $50,000 grant, the Early College program will introduce BHS students to high-level coursework, instruction, and hands-on opportunities and materials, including the use of lab spaces at the MMA campus. MMA and BHS educators will work together to develop the scope, sequence, and offerings for the program. A Steering Committee with representatives from both institutions will be established and will include Dean of Undergraduate Studies James McKenna, Dean of Enrollment Management, Equity & Inclusion and Chief Diversity Officer Michael Ortiz, and Associate Dean of Engineering James Yeh, all from MMA; and Assistant Superintendent Barbara Starkie, Ed.D., Bourne High School Principal Lisa E. Maguire, Ed.D., and Curriculum Director 6-12 Jesse Clements representing Bourne Public Schools.
“We are grateful to the Healey-Driscoll Administration for this important grant funding and thrilled to partner with Bourne High School to launch this exciting Early College program,” said Rear Admiral Francis X. McDonald, USMS, president of the Massachusetts Maritime Academy. “This initiative not only strengthens our longstanding relationship with the high school but also aligns with our commitment to providing high-quality education and hands-on learning experiences. By empowering underrepresented students with access to advanced coursework and career opportunities, we are paving the way for a brighter future for many local students.”
“We are excited to collaborate with Massachusetts Maritime Academy on what we are certain will be a valuable program,” said Kerri Anne Quinlan-Zhou, Ed.D., superintendent of Bourne Public Schools. “The partnership will provide our students with beneficial opportunities to engage in advanced coursework and gain practical experience in various fields. By working together, we aim to prepare our students for successful futures in college and their careers.”
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