The Seafarers International Union (SIU) collaborated with industry partners earlier this year to facilitate ship visits and tours on the Cape Kennedy and Cape Knox vessels in New Orleans. These ships, crewed by Seafarers and operated by Keystone, were part of an initiative aimed at helping military veterans transition into maritime careers.
Chris Westbrook, SIU Assistant Vice President, explained the purpose of the event: “The visit was a result of our ongoing collaboration with The Boot, a state-funded non-profit led by former military personnel, that links up separating service members and veterans with employment opportunities throughout the state. The Boot has recruiters working with every base statewide.”
Participants in the vessel tours included Westbrook and George Owen, SIU New Orleans Port Agent; Lisa Overby Wright, Fleet Manager for Keystone; Sharon Lassere, Government Purchasing Manager for Keystone; local officials from the U.S. Maritime Administration; and representatives from The Boot such as Chief Operating Officer Bubba Viator, Success Manager Lamar Narcisse, Success Director Jeff Leger, along with active service member Cole Cortez.
Westbrook and Owen highlighted the “Military to Mariner” program during the event. They discussed training and career opportunities available through SIU before attendees toured the ships under the guidance of deck and engine officers.
Attendees engaged in discussions with crew members aboard both vessels and were provided a shipboard lunch.
For additional information about career opportunities with SIU or The Boot’s programs, interested parties can visit their respective websites.
