The Military to Mariner (M2M) Voluntary Credentialing Program is now part of the Coast Guard’s Online Mentoring Program—called M2M Community Marketplace.
In the marketplace, members can get the latest on Merchant Mariner Credentialing, as well as, explore the various types of jobs available in the civilian maritime industry and assess which credentials align with their career goals.
The M2M Program was borne in 2018 from Executive Order 13860 to ‘Support the Transition of Active Servicemembers and Military Veterans into the Merchant Marine.’ The M2M Program resulted and with it, a better way for members to receive appropriate credit for their military training and experience. It also goes towards credentialing requirements as a merchant mariner.
The M2M Community Marketplace
The M2M Community Marketplace serves as an online forum that connects prospective mariners with those that have successfully attained their credentials. “The common concern heard during our M2M outreach events is that there is an overwhelming amount of information available, which often leads to confusion for those attempting to navigate the process themselves,” said Lt. Cmdr. Fasoli, the M2M Program Manager.
The M2M Community Marketplace provides members a forum where they can determine whether a credential is right for them. In addition, they can learn the types of jobs available to them as civilian mariners and use the current resources available to create a professional development trackline that will allow them to leave the service with exactly the Merchant Mariner Credential they want.
Benefits of Early Credentialing
Fasoli emphasizes the importance of starting the credentialing process early in a military career. “The earlier a member starts the process, the more opportunities they have to capitalize on their sea time and credentialing assistance benefits."
“The M2M Program offers a Credentialing Assistance (CA) benefit of $4,500, which is distinct from the more commonly recognized Tuition Assistance (TA) benefit of the same amount. When used together, these benefits can provide up to $9,000 annually for professional development,” said Fasoli.
Petty Officer 2nd Class John Nader, a credentialed mariner and facilitator within the M2M Community Marketplace, shares the importance of early credentialing “Getting your license early-on is crucial for upgrading your credentials with accrued sea time.” Nader reflects on his own experience, wishing he had pursued his license sooner to maximize his career potential.
For servicemembers considering separation after their initial tour, Nader highlights the potential for immediate employment with an entry-level credential. “There are no additional requirements beyond the application,” he explains, making the transition to civilian life more seamless for those with military backgrounds.
Join the M2M Community
The M2M Community Marketplace is an invaluable resource for those interested in exploring the maritime industry. For more information on joining the marketplace or participating in monthly meetups, visit the M2M Portal page or contact the M2M team directly at cgm2m@uscg.mil.
In summary, the M2M Voluntary Credentialing Program is paving the way for military members to transition smoothly into rewarding careers in the maritime sector, harnessing their skills and experience to thrive in this dynamic field.
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