Purpose
Connecting Future Maritime Leaders to a Global Industry Network
The Student Port Program of the International Propeller Club aims to instill an appreciation for the importance of the maritime industry and merchant marine among young professionals preparing for careers in this vital field. Student Ports connect motivated students to an international community of maritime professionals, resources, and opportunities.
Who Can Join
Members of Student Ports are students pursuing degrees that support a maritime career, including—but not limited to:
- International Business
- Logistics & Supply Chain Management
- Marine Transportation
- Naval Architecture
- Marine Engineering
- International Trade
- Marine Biology
- Oceanography
- Maritime Policy & Administration
Where You’ll Find Student Ports
Student Ports have already been successfully established at the following institutions:
- California Maritime Academy
- College of Charleston
- The Citadel
- Great Lakes Maritime Academy
- Keiser University
- Kings Point (U.S. Merchant Marine Academy)
- Maine Maritime Academy
- Massachusetts Maritime Academy
- Miami Dade College
- Northeast Maritime Institute
- Old Dominion University
- SUNY Maritime College
- San Jacinto Maritime
- Texas A&M
- Texas Southern University
- University of Miami
- University of New Orleans
- University of North Florida
- French Maritime Academy, Nantes Campus
- French Maritime Academy, Le Havre Campus
- Nantes University, Law and Security of Maritime and Oceanic Activities department
- Nantes University, Finance and Maritime Logistics – Shipping Trading department
A Student Port can be formed at any college or university where there is demonstrated interest in shipping, trade, transportation, or waterborne commerce—with support from a Propeller Club Port in the area.
Steps to Start a Student Port
- Contact Jeremy Smith, VP Student Ports: Please contact Jeremy Smith, VP Student Ports, at [email protected] to get started.
- Secure Sponsorship: Connect with the nearest Propeller Club Port and obtain written confirmation that they will sponsor and actively support the Student Port.
- Obtain Campus Approval: Gain written authorization from your institution’s Dean or appropriate administrator approving and encouraging the club’s formation.
- Find a Faculty Advisor: Identify a faculty member willing to serve as the Faculty Advisor, providing ongoing support, mentorship, and continuity for the Student Port.
- Recruit Founding Members: Gather a minimum of 25 motivated students as Charter Members interested in maritime-related fields and activities.
- Determine Charter Member Dues: Set a reasonable Charter Membership fee for founding student members.
- Apply for Charter: Submit a letter of application to the International Propeller Club headquarters, including:
- Proof of steps 1–5
- List of founding student members
- After Approval
- Elect Student Port Officers
- Draft a Constitution and Bylaws
- Determine annual membership fees
- Set up a dedicated Student Port email address
- Order student membership pins from headquarters
- Coordinate with your sponsoring Port to host a “Kick-off” Charter Presentation
- Stay Engaged
- Regularly report on activities and milestones to the International Propeller Club Headquarters
- Collaborate with your sponsoring Port on events, mentorship, and advocacy
Why It Matters
Student Ports are a vital part of the International Propeller Club network helping to develop the next generation of maritime professionals. Members gain:
- Leadership and networking opportunities
- Insight into real-world maritime issues
- Access to industry events and professionals
- A deeper understanding of the global impact of waterborne commerce
Get in Touch
Ready to start a Student Port or want more information? We’re here to help guide you every step of the way. Contact Us today.