RFI Maritime education & Training   3

Background
The Maritime Administration (MARAD) is conducting market research through a Request for Information (RFI) to identify qualified vendors capable of supporting the agency's maritime education and workforce development initiatives.

This effort aligns with MARAD's goal of ensuring a well-trained and resilient maritime workforce to support national economic and security needs. The Office of Maritime Labor and Training (MET) plays a critical role in fostering a strong maritime workforce, supporting training and education to maintain a robust U.S. maritime industry, specifically aiding the Strategic Sealift Officer (SSO) program.

Work Details
The contractor will provide services in two key areas: Career Services Support and Workforce Development.

For Career Support Services, tasks include: individualized assistance to undergraduates for internship guidance, resume writing, career counseling; interview preparation; bi-annual assessments of afloat job availability; annual reports on graduates utilizing career services; coordination of presentations/workshops; information dissemination on maritime employment trends; and database management of graduate interactions.

For Workforce Development Support, tasks include: bi-annual workforce assessments; developing a workforce model; performance reports with strategic recommendations; monthly activity reports summarizing hiring trends; engagement with educators and industry professionals; and outreach efforts targeting K-12 students interested in maritime education.

Period of Performance
This is a two-year contract with an option to extend, subject to the availability of funds and MARAD's evaluation of contractor performance.

Place of Performance
The contract will be performed at various locations including the U.S. Merchant Marine Academy in Kings Point, NY, California Maritime Academy in Vallejo, CA, Great Lakes Maritime Academy in Traverse City, MI, Massachusetts Maritime Academy in Buzzards Bay, MA, State University of New York Maritime College in Fort Schuyler, NY, Maine Maritime Academy in Castine, ME, Texas A&M Maritime Academy in Galveston, TX, as well as various K-12 identified institutions nationwide.