Microcredentials Overview

There is a global need for skilled workers across various sectors within the marine industry. Remarkably, many of these positions don't require advanced degrees in engineering or science but instead necessary skills and proficiencies that align with technical requirements common to the industries they serve. 

To address this need, MTS has established the infrastructure to issue a diverse range of stackable microcredentials. Microcredentials are designed to be "stacked" in a variety of combinations, like interlocking blocks, to progress toward the competencies necessary for learners to attain their specific certifications or employment objectives. These microcredentials specifically address the competencies essential for employment within the blue economy. 

• those in the early stages of their careers seeking entry into the industry
• those looking to enhance their existing knowledge and skillset
• those aiming to transition into new industries
• those interested in formal recognition for their existing skills

Why MTS?

By utilizing MTS's leadership and communication channels, we will engage experts from various sectors, including academia, industry, government, and the military, to provide insights into the competencies needed for their respective employees. 

The overarching objective is to foster the development of standardized competencies that are recognized by employers and teaching goals for partner educational institutions. 

Available MTS Microcredentials

MTS microcredentials are available to acknowledge a variety of skillsets and proficiency levels. Once achieved, a learner will receive an electronic badge to share on resumes and social media. 

Earning MTS Microcredentials

MTS has devised two distinct delivery methods for earning microcredentials - directly through MTS or with affiliated educations institutions. 

Microcredentials Pathways

• Learners seeking undergraduate degrees can stack multiple microcredentials to earn course credits or in addition to course credits to earn a degree and certificates.
• Learners can enhance a traditional education program with competencies to stand out in a talent pool. 
• Learners can use microcredential pathways to codify and enhance their existing knowledge and skillsets for advancement or transition into new industries, including military crosswalks. 

How to Support the Effort

MTS is eager to involve the community in this endeavor and invites anyone interested in contributing to reach out and express their willingness to serve on one of the committees. 

Contact: Liesl Hotaling, MTS Director of Program Development - [email protected] 

Partner Organizations

MTS is currently engaged in conversations with numerous organizations that share our vision and values, exploring opportunities to establish partnerships and leverage the MTS Microcredentials Framework. If you are interested in exploring a potential partnership with MTS, we encourage you to reach out for further discussion and collaboration. 

Summary

The intent behind recognizing microcredentials across various sectors is to expedite job placement and foster the growth of a globally competitive workforce of ocean technicians, ready to contribute to exploration, research, and development in the future. We eagerly anticipate collaborating with the community to transform this vision into a tangible reality in the coming years. 

Contact Us

Contact: Liesl Hotaling, MTS Director of Program Development - [email protected]

 This page was developed with the support of the National Science Foundation under Grant No. NSF OCE-2308556. Any opinions, findings, and conclusions or recommendations expressed in this material are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the National Science Foundation.