Craig Johnson named Maine Maritime Academy’s 16th president

Today, Maine Maritime Academy's (MMA) board of trustees has announced the appointment of Craig Johnson as the institution’s 16th president. Johnson, a 1991 graduate of the Academy, has served as chief operating officer since August 2022 and interim president since June 2024.

According to an MMA press release, the selection follows a national search that began in fall 2024. The search committee, chaired by trustee S. Catherine Longley, received more than 90 applications. Longley noted the committee unanimously recommended Johnson to the board, which approved his appointment.

The MMA statement highlighted Johnson's background, overseeing strategic partnerships with Bath Iron Works and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard during his tenure as MMA’s COO and interim president. He was reappointed to the U.S. Department of Transportation Maritime Transportation System National Advisory Committee and has led capital improvement projects, including the expansion and renovation of the Academy’s waterfront and updates to Curtis Hall, the largest campus residential structure.

Johnson’s maritime industry experience spans three decades, including roles at Seacor Holdings and XL North. He was a founding partner of Flagship Management, an international maritime search and consulting firm, and he held U.S. Coast Guard first assistant engineer and third assistant engineer licenses.

Johnson's appointment comes as the Academy prepares to receive the $300 million National Security Multi-Mission Vessel T/S State of Maine in fall 2025. The vessel, owned by the U.S. Department of Transportation’s Maritime Administration, is the third of its kind assigned to a state maritime academy.

“It is my pleasure to announce that following a thorough search, we have selected Craig Johnson to lead Maine Maritime Academy,” said MMA board chairman Wayne Norton. “As COO and interim president, Craig has demonstrated stalwart leadership across the budgetary and strategic fronts making solid inroads for the Academy throughout the maritime sector. He is well respected by faculty, staff and students alike. Craig has a steady hand and the vision to position MMA for the pivotal moments ahead in the maritime industry.”