Congressman Clay Higgins (R-La.) and Congressman Mike Ezell (R-Miss.) introduced legislation Wednesday aimed at helping U.S. Coast Guard veterans transition into the dredging industry.
The proposed bill, titled the Industrial Certification for Coast Guard Veterans Act, seeks to capitalize on the technical expertise of retiring Coast Guard personnel by facilitating their entry into the private-sector dredging workforce — a critical component in maintaining U.S. ports, waterways, and infrastructure.
The dredging industry, like other parts of the U.S. maritime sector, continues to struggle with recruiting, hiring, and retaining skilled workers.
Under the bill, the Department of Homeland Security would be tasked with producing a comprehensive report evaluating the transferability of Coast Guard training and experience to dredging operations. The report would also explore recruitment strategies, credentialing or certification programs, and potential collaboration with the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to ensure a smooth transition for veterans.
“The dredging and maintenance of America’s ports and waterways is critical to our economic and national security,” said Rep. Higgins. “This legislation prioritizes workforce development efforts for the dredging industry in partnership with the U.S. Coast Guard. We’re exploring opportunities for retiring Coast Guard personnel to transition their skills into the private sector, all while supporting efforts to maintain our maritime infrastructure.”
Rep. Ezell, who chairs the House Subcommittee on Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation, echoed Higgins’ focus on leveraging military expertise for domestic infrastructure. “As Chairman of the Coast Guard and Maritime Transportation Subcommittee, I’ve seen firsthand the talent and expertise our Coast Guard members bring to the table,” said Ezell. “The Industrial Certification for Coast Guard Veterans Act will help ensure those skills don’t go to waste after service.”
