The Engineering Candidate Hawsepipe (TECH) Program is a comprehensive training program for those who want to pursue a career as a seagoing marine engineering officer onboard vessels operated under contract with American Maritime Officers.
The deadline for applications for the next TECH Program class is noon on June 3. The class will commence in September 2024. Interested personnel should complete the application process and submit it on the STAR Center website.
In conjunction with STAR Center, AMO – the largest union of U.S. Merchant Marine officers – is offering this program with the purpose of providing selected candidates with the opportunity to proceed on a marine engineering career path and help fill the projected shortage of marine engineers. The program targets those with an interest in the Merchant Marine and mentors them during intense training onboard ship and ashore.
The TECH Program is now in its tenth year, having paused briefly during the pandemic. There are currently 20 apprentice engineers in the program, which so far has produced 50 U.S. Coast Guard licensed Third Assistant unlimited/OICEW engineers – all of whom sail with AMO.
The TECH program will take approximately two years to complete and alternates between classroom training and sea phases. Upon successful completion of the program, the individual commences career employment as a marine engineer with AMO.
The TECH program is sponsored by the American Maritime Officers Plans and is also approved for Veteran Affairs benefits. Please use the link above for full information on the program.