The Military to Mariner (M2M) program issued the first course completion in late April to Senior Chief Petty Officer William J. Dilla for the basic and advanced firefighting course.
The M2M program is designed to help veterans capitalize on their service experience, and fast-track to a role as a U.S. Merchant Marine. United States military veterans have a wide range of technical, logistical, and managerial experience from their time in service, some of which is already tailored to commercial maritime operations.
Dilla, an electrician’s mate who has served close to a decade aboard six cutters, provided required documents to the M2M program after completing both Navy firefighting schools, basic and advanced damage control watchstation qualification standards (WQS).
The basic and advanced firefighting courses generally spans a five-day period and can cost up to $1,800.
“This certification will assist me in achieving the requirements for National Officer Endorsements... after I receive National Qualified Member of the Engine Department (QMED) certification through the National Maritime Center,” Dilla said.
“The Coast Guard is providing their members with opportunities to take full advantage of their qualifications and certifications in the civilian world,” added Dilla. “These opportunities make each person more qualified in a competitive environment while ensuring their skills don’t get unnoticed when they depart the service.”
The basic and advanced firefighting course is the first joint service course approved by the National Maritime Center (NMC). The M2M course completion certificate allows the member to submit proof of completion to NMC for credit up to five years.
Learn more about how the M2M Program can help advance your career goals.
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