Maritime Academy names new superintendent

A U.S. Coast Guard officer from Texas has been named the new Superintendent of the Great Lakes Maritime Academy, a division of Northwestern Michigan College.

Former Deputy Sector Commander for the U.S. Coast Guard Jerry Achenbach will assume his new role at the nation's only freshwater-based maritime academy by Oct. 1.

Achenbach was selected after a national search to lead the Great Lakes Maritime Academy.

One of the new superintendent's goals will be to develop a community college baccalaureate for Maritime Technology as soon as the state provides authorization.

Having served as a Merchant Marine Officer, as well as in the Coast Guard, Achenbach has substantial first-hand experience with respect to application of U.S. regulations and international treaties regarding merchant vessel operations and Merchant Marine licensing.

In addition, he was Chief of Merchant Marine Licensing at the Coast Guard Marine Safety Office in Juneau, Alaska, and has served as a marine inspector and investigator, and a Deck Watch Officer.

"I am deeply honored to have been selected for this position," Achenbach says. "While I will always hold the U.S. Coast Guard in the highest regard, I am looking forward to this incredible opportunity."

Achenbach has an MBA from the University of Alaska and a Bachelor's Degree from the State University of New York Maritime College. He succeeds former Superintendent John Tanner, who retired June 30.

Writer: Sam Eggleston
Source: Jerry Achenbach, Great Lakes Maritime Academy