M.E.B.A. Training
With our best-in-class training plan you can take classes at the location of your choosing and get reimbursed as soon as you finish. Or train at M.E.B.A.'s own state of the art Calhoon School, where we cover all costs, including travel.
$0
Tuition Cost
All training fully covered
690
Acres
Calhoon School campus
50+
Courses
USCG approved curriculum
1966
Established
USCG approved since founding
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Two Training Paths
Option A
Our own private maritime training facility in Easton, Maryland. 690 acres of waterfront property on the Miles River. We pay for travel, room, board, and tuition. Bring your family.
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Travel to and from school covered
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Room and board included
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All tuition and fees covered
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Family welcome to join you
Option B
When the school's schedule doesn't fit your work schedule, you can attend classes at any approved alternate location. The Training Plan covers tuition, and for deck officers, lodging is often covered as well.
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Choose the location that works for you
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Tuition reimbursed upon completion
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Deck officer lodging often included
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Flexible scheduling
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The Calhoon School
The only union-sponsored maritime officer cadet program in the country. Located in Easton, Maryland, on the scenic Miles River. USCG approved since 1966.
Two full mission bridges and a tug bridge for USCG upgrade training and certifications.
The only union maritime school with a replicate shipboard environment meeting STCW Basic Training requirements.
Open lifeboat with launching davit for STCW Personal Survival Craft and lifeboatman courses.
Enclosed wet trainer for practical exercises to mitigate water intrusion. MSC Damage Control training.
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About the School
Director, Calhoon M.E.B.A. Engineering School
The Calhoon MEBA Engineering School (CMES) was established in 1966 through a partnership between maritime employers and labor to address industry labor shortages. Originally known for its intensive multi-year Cadet program, the school pioneeringly set the benchmark for comprehensive maritime training. Today, governed by a board of trustees from the Marine Engineers Beneficial Association (MEBA) and contracted employers, CMES focuses on providing state-of-the-art continuing education, hands-on instructional training, and regulatory certifications to ensure maritime professionals are well-prepared for real-world shipboard service.
The institution offers a diverse curriculum spanning over 40 USCG-approved courses and 7 MSC-approved courses across four primary categories: Licensed Deck Officer Training, Licensed Engineering Training, Electrical Training, and General Education. While its primary focus remains training MEBA members and applicants to supply high-quality labor, CMES opened its doors to other commercial maritime partners and industry professionals in 2007 due to high demand for its advanced curriculum. The school continuously adapts its coursework to incorporate emerging technologies, which ensures safety, reliability, and future-proof skills for its participants.
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Training Plan Details
As a Training Plan participant, you have immediate access to the Calhoon School. The full course catalog opens after 30 days of covered employment.
Eligibility
M.E.B.A. members in good standing may attend after 30 days of covered employment with an employer that contributes to the Training Plan. Benefits include classes, lodging and meals at CMES, and transportation.
What's Covered
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All class tuition and fees
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Lodging and meals on campus
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Travel to and from school
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Family can stay on campus
Disciplines
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Deck officer upgrading
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Marine engineering
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STCW requirements
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Emergency response
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MSC requirements
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Electrical and computer
07
General education
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Not Just a School
CMES prides itself on providing a fun and relaxing atmosphere for members and their families. The school offers an Olympic-sized indoor swimming pool, basketball court, tennis courts, fully equipped weight room, pontoon boats, fishing, paddle boards, canoes, kayaks, a cocktail lounge, game room, hunting, and children's playgrounds and playroom.
Members are welcome to bring their significant other and children to make training more of a family event than a work requirement.
External Resource
For the full course catalog, enrollment procedures, class schedule, and travel instructions, visit the school's website.
Six steps. $150 to start. The best pension, healthcare, and training in the industry from day one. Download the application or find your nearest hall.
