NMC Marine Technology students conduct sonar operations aboard the R/V Northwestern
February 4, 2026
Around the world, Detroit is synonymous with the automotive industry. Now, as Michigan sets its course for the maritime industry, NMC has become a key player in a region that will be vital to statewide success.
Last week the state released its first-ever Michigan Maritime Strategy, six draft goals to guide state policy and investment. NMC is one of just two Michigan community colleges called out in the report. NMC Vice President of Strategic Initiatives Jason Slade participated in two input sessions and provided online input.
The Great Lakes Maritime Academy and Great Lakes Water Studies Institute each have a role in goal 4, “lead the nation in recruitment, training, and retention of the maritime workforce.” GLMA graduates pilot and maintain ships on the Great Lakes, while Marine Technology graduates work in hydrographic surveying, part of port inspections. The under-construction Freshwater Research & Innovation Center is ahead of the curve on goal 5, “cultivate a thriving maritime innovation ecosystem.”
“Northern Michigan has a lot of capabilities in a number of these goals,” Slade said. “I think it was critical that the strategy document listed the Freshwater Research & Innovation Center.”
Construction is on schedule for the anticipated spring 2027 opening of the $29.8 million collaborative blue tech innovation hub, with concrete work completed and steel delivery expected this month. One tenant, NV5, is confirmed. A second, the Great Lakes Fisheries Commission, which includes the Fishpass project underway in downtown Traverse City, is nearly finalized. NMC has partnered with Discovery Pier, Traverse Connect, 20Fathoms and Michigan Technological University to build FRIC. The state also invested $15 million in the 40,000 square-foot facility.
Projects like FRIC ultimately broaden Michigan’s economy.
“Michigan is prepared to lead the future of maritime innovation while protecting the waters that define us,” said Gov. Gretchen Whitmer in a news release accompanying the strategy. “The Michigan Maritime Strategy is a long-term plan for us to create good-paying local jobs and attract cutting-edge investments while protecting our Great Lakes.”
“It’s really a diversification to complement the auto industry,” Slade said. He added that NMC also brings experience and expertise on aerial mobility initiatives with drones, and can apply that to the new strategy.
“We have a reputation with the state for being at the forefront for mobility areas. We need to push that for maritime as well,” he said.
Public comment on the draft strategy is open until Feb. 27. The strategy is expected to be formally adopted later this year.