We Work the Waterways Provides Workforce Development Efforts to Maritime Consortium

“We Work the Waterways (WWW) is serving as a workforce development and engagement partner in the launch of the Corn Belt Ports Rural Logistics & Maritime Training & Education Consortium, a multi-state collaboration focused on strengthening the inland maritime workforce pipeline across America’s river system.

Bringing together ports, industry leaders, and an initial network of higher education institutions, including community and technical colleges across four states (Iowa, Illinois, Wisconsin, and Missouri), the consortium addresses one of the industry’s most pressing challenges, developing a skilled workforce prepared to meet evolving supply chain demands.

WWW has played an active role in shaping the consortium’s workforce strategy, contributing expertise in student engagement, career awareness, and industry-education alignment. Through its national programming and hands-on Maritime Interaction Days, WWW connects students directly with maritime professionals, creating early exposure and clear pathways into high-demand careers.

The consortium is focused on developing stackable, real-world career pathways aligned with employer needs across inland waterways and logistics, while expanding access in rural and river-connected communities where maritime careers are vital but often underrepresented.

A key component of the consortium’s early momentum is the participation of higher education partners committed to workforce training and credential development” …

Read the full article here! Story by Marine Link.