HOUSTON, TX – February 28, 2025 – The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) will host its highly anticipated Marine Operations Seminar on March 5, 2025, in Houston, Texas. This year’s seminar will feature an imperative discussion on the intersection of maritime security and national security, during the panel “Maritime Security = National Security: Repowering the US Maritime Industry.”
At the end of World War II, the U.S. flag flew on 50% of the world’s tonnage; today, that number has plummeted to just 0.4%. This stark decline has left the country exposed in multiple areas including National Security, Economic Security, Energy & Food Security and Workforce Development.
We will be joined by Rear Admiral Jim Watson (USCG Ret.) and Carleen Lyden Walker, CEO and Co-Founder of NAMEPA, for an in-depth discussion on the anticipated implications of the SHIPS Act and Project 2025 on the U.S. maritime sector. As co-authors of the recently published book, ZERO POINT FOUR – How US Leadership in Maritime Will Secure America’s Future, this highly anticipated discussion will offer attendees a deeper look into the book’s findings and recommendations. Topics will include the urgent need for the US to invest in shipbuilding, workforce development, regulatory reforms, and the role of strategic partnerships in securing the nation’s maritime future.
“The U.S. maritime industry is at a crossroads,” said Carleen Lyden Walker. “We have a unique opportunity to turn the tide, rebuild our fleet and maritime manpower in order to reclaim our leadership in global shipping. But we must act now.”
“The decline of the U.S. merchant marine is not just an industry issue—it’s a national security issue,” added RADM Jim Watson. “This discussion will lay out the steps needed to restore our maritime strength and ensure America’s future security and prosperity.”
The Marine Operations Seminar will bring together maritime professionals, policymakers, and industry leaders to discuss the critical issues facing the sector. In addition to the featured panel, the event will cover key operational, regulatory, and environmental topics shaping the future of maritime in the U.S. and beyond.
For more information and to register for the seminar, visit here.
About NAMEPA
The North American Marine Environment Protection Association (NAMEPA) was officially launched in 2007. NAMEPA is a maritime industry-led organization of environmental stewards preserving the marine environment by promoting sustainable marine industry best practices and educating seafarers, students, and the public about the need and strategies for protecting global ocean, lake, and river resources. For more information, visit www.namepa.net.