Page 20: of Marine News Magazine (March 2026)

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Feature

U.S. Shipbuilding skilled shipbuilding labor, the ASC program has been sup- ing with Rauma Marine Constructions advanced produc- ported by the U.S. Department of Labor (ILAB) through tion practices to suit our industry needs.

the International Workforce Development Initiative to While we debate shipyard capacity, green? eld develop- provide sustainable, quality training paths along with inte- ment and “shipyards of the future”, this forward-thinking grating Finnish shipbuilding practices utilized during the decision by the current Administration and the USCG

ASC construction program. prior to the MAP releases is addressing true shipbuilding

The NEXTSEAS program is developing partnership ar- problems and gathering experienced partners to expedite rangements with Satakunta University of Applied Sciences our maritime capabilities.

addressing engineering, robotics, and automation training. The Amtech Network has commercial “Ice Class” con-

Länsirannikon Koulutus Oy WinNova is building ship- struction and repair experience along with Ice operations building skills of welding, machining, electrical, rigging in Alaska, St Petersburg, Russia, the Great Lakes and Nova and safety while Massachusetts Maritime Academy is the Scotia. We are prepared to support the ASC program.

U.S. curriculum partner translating the Finnish practices More importantly it is our opinion the U.S must look to to U.S shipbuilding opportunities and aligning the train- understand the new northern passage market well beyond military involvement.

Commercial Shipbuilding: Lessons Learned

So where are the “lessons learned” as it relates to U.S. commercial shipbuilding.

Worldwide geopolitical events in Venezuela, Suez, and the Panama Canal coupled with a sanctioned Russian ghost ? eet have created more than elevated interest in the North- ern Sea Route along Russia’s Arctic coast. The larger North- east Passage and Canada’s Northwest passage also provide seasonal transportation as the far north is warming nearly four times faster than the global average. Continued “ICE” discussions will extend that seasonal market as the route can become more viable when compared to the issues the long-term geopolitical events present. The projected cargo tonnage capable of moving through the Arctic passage has

ILS Ship Design & Engineering 20 | MN March 2026