In a bold move that’s set to ripple through the maritime industry, The University of Southern Mississippi is diving headfirst into the future with its upcoming UMS Tier 1 Certificate Program. Starting March 24 and running till April 25, this five-week intensive is more than just a course—it’s a launchpad for those eager to make waves in oceanography and uncrewed maritime systems (UMS).
Picture this: a hands-on, high-energy learning environment nestled at the Southern Miss Marine Research Center in Gulfport, Mississippi. The program is designed to be a melting pot of knowledge, welcoming students from high school graduates to Ph.D. recipients. Many of these students are already knee-deep in the industry, juggling full-time jobs in oceanography, geology, hydrography, fisheries, and more. This is not your average classroom setting; it’s a dynamic mix of theory and practice, where students will get their hands dirty with basic marine science instrumentation, marine autonomous vehicles, and operating instrumentation in marine environments. The cherry on top? Each student will construct and test a functioning buoyancy glider in a lab setting. Talk about rolling up your sleeves and getting to work!
Carl Szczechowski, the UMS Certificate Program coordinator, is not one to rest on his laurels. He’s all about keeping the program fresh, injecting it with new and emerging technologies. For the spring 2025 offering, Szczechowski and his co-instructor, Kevin Martin, have shaken things up. They’ve restructured the curriculum, tweaking the order of subject material to enhance the learning experience. “This should result in an enhanced learning experience for the students,” Szczechowski asserts, emphasizing the program’s commitment to staying ahead of the curve.
But here’s the kicker: applications are considered on a first-come, first-served basis, with a deadline of March 3 at 4 p.m. Class size is capped at 15 students, so this is no casual stroll on the beach. It’s a competitive dive into the deep end, and aspiring oceanographers and UMS enthusiasts are scrambling to get in.
So, what does this mean for the maritime industry? For starters, it’s a clear signal that the future is uncrewed, and those who want to stay afloat need to get on board. This program is not just about filling seats; it’s about filling a gap in the market. As maritime technology evolves, so too must the workforce. This program is a proactive step towards bridging that gap, ensuring that the industry has the skilled professionals it needs to navigate the waters of tomorrow.
Moreover, this program could very well be the catalyst for a new wave of innovation. By bringing together a diverse group of students and exposing them to cutting-edge technology, the program is a breeding ground for fresh ideas and groundbreaking research. Who knows what the next big thing in UMS will be? It could very well be dreamed up in a lab at the Southern Miss Marine Research Center.
The ball is rolling, and the maritime industry is watching. This program is more than just an educational opportunity; it’s a statement. It’s a declaration that the future is here, and it’s uncrewed. Those who want to be part of it had better get their applications in before the deadline, or they’ll be left watching the tide from the shore.
