Training Vessel Docks In Duluth

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By KBJR News 1

Story Published: May 19, 2008 at 5:34 PM CST

Story Updated: May 19, 2008 at 10:29 PM CST

The vessel "The State of Michigan" made a stop today in Duluth's Harbor to promote its cadet on–board training program.

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Community members were given the opportunity to hop on board.
LeAnn Wallace has more.

"Onboard training is irreplaceable. It brings everything together."

The vessel is run by the Great Lakes Maritime Academy and trains men and women to serve aboard Great Lakes and ocean ships.

39 cadets are currently on board touring four of the great lakes while doing some training along the way.

"We learn how to steer the boat, operations, the bow thruster, navitagion plotting, and then when we're on work watch we basically do anything that needs to be done, from chipping paint to swabbing the decks"

"Based out of Traverse City Michigan, the onboard school is the nation's only freshwater academy."

First year cadet Brett Udesen says the on–board training gives him a good idea of what a career at sea might be like.

You kind of get a taste of what it's like before you go out into the commercial world."

Community members were also given a taste.

The public was invited on board the vessel for a tour and got an up–close look at the cadet's training routines.

The training is a joint project established by the University of Minnesota Duluth and the University of Wisconsin Superior.

Graduates of the four–year program earn a bachelor's degree in business administration and an associate's in maritime technology.
In Duluth, LeAnn Wallace, the Northlands News Center.

This evening "The State of Michigan" is leaving Duluth and heading back to Michigan.