Page 27: of Marine News Magazine (April 2012)

www.marinelink.com MN27ing resource, the Non-Profit 501c (3) Maritime Simulation Institute (MSI), operates out of Middletown, RI. A burgeoning high-tech maritime secu-rity sector exists here as well, anchored by ASA Science, Rite Solutions, and the Naval Underwater War College (NUWC). At the heart of Governor Chafees revitalization efforts is his recognition that the marine trade industry will play a key role in Rhode Islands future. In March, the Governor told gathered journalists that he believes these industries, which carry great potential for high-skilled manufactur-ing, will be crucial, just as they have been throughout the states history. Rhode Island, he says, is a logical choice for marine industries andresearch, not only because of its coastal infrastructure, but because the state has a strong supply chain, over 12,000 workers employed in the industry, and access to world-class marine building and technology part- ners and an active Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA). OUT& ABOUTDrilling down, the specific parts of Rhode Islands maritime business cli- mate are arguably even more impres- sive than the whole. A whirlwind two-day tour of the states waterfront provided several notable highlights: The Rhode Islands Naval Undersea Warfare Center (NUWC) is the U.S. Navy's full-spectrum research, devel- opment, test and evaluation, engi- neering and fleet support center for submarines, autonomous underwater systems, and offensive and defensive weapons systems associated with undersea warfare. One of the corpo- rate laboratories of the Naval Sea Systems Command, NUWC is head- quartered in Newport. NUWC employs more than 4,400 civilian and military personnel around the world, with budgets of over $1 billion. The University of Rhode Islands Graduate School of Oceanography offers a Blue MBA? which prepares students for management careers in energy, ocean technology and engi- neering, and marine navigation. The program works across disciplines ranging from observation-based research, modeling, and instrument development, which translates into initiatives funded by organizations such as the NSF, DOC, USAID, U.S. Navy, DOE, U.S. Air Force, EPA, and others. The work ranges