Maine Maritime Academy Appoints Craig Johnson as 16th President

CASTINE, Maine—Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) has announced the appointment of Craig Johnson ’91 as its 16th President. Johnson, who has been serving as Interim President since June 2024 and as Chief Operating Officer since 2022, was selected following a nationwide search that attracted 90 applicants.Board Chairman Wayne Norton ‘86 expressed confidence in Johnson’s leadership, stating, “He is well respected by faculty, staff, and students alike. Craig has a steady hand and the vision to position MMA for the pivotal moments ahead in the maritime industry.”Johnson’s appointment comes at a significant time for MMA, as the academy prepares to welcome a $300 million National Security Multi-Mission Vessel later this fall.

The United States is home to several prestigious maritime academies dedicated to training future leaders in the maritime industry. These institutions offer rigorous academic programs combined with practical sea-time experience.

• United States Merchant Marine Academy (USMMA): Located in Kings Point, New York, USMMA is a federal service academy that educates leaders for the U.S. Merchant Marine, armed forces, and transportation industry.

• California State University Maritime Academy (Cal Maritime): Based in Vallejo, California, Cal Maritime is one of seven degree-granting maritime academies in the U.S. and the only one on the West Coast.

• Maine Maritime Academy (MMA): Located in Castine, Maine, MMA is a public post-secondary college and nautical training institution.

• Massachusetts Maritime Academy: Situated in Buzzards Bay, Massachusetts, this academy offers undergraduate and graduate degrees in maritime-related fields.

• State University of New York (SUNY) Maritime College: Located in the Bronx, New York, SUNY Maritime College provides programs in marine transportation, engineering, and environmental science.

• Texas A&M Maritime Academy: Based in Galveston, Texas, this academy is a branch of Texas A&M University, offering maritime-focused programs.

• Great Lakes Maritime Academy: Located in Traverse City, Michigan, it is a division of Northwestern Michigan College, focusing on maritime education.

These academies play a crucial role in maintaining the United States’ maritime industry by providing well-trained officers and professionals essential for national security and economic prosperity.