About AMCI

The American Center for Aviation Innovation (AMCAI) Ocean Exploration Branch, operating as the American Center for Maritime Innovation (ACMI), is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high school students with workforce development opportunities in the maritime industry.

Our High School Maritime STEM & Drone Technology Program

ACMI's Maritime STEM Magnet Program has partnered with American High School Academy (AHSA), a fully accredited high school, to provide this workforce development program that aligns with Career and Technical Education (CTE) pathways, industry standards, and maritime workforce needs.

Through this partnership, students receive high school credits while gaining real-world experience, industry certifications, and hands-on training in maritime, ocean exploration, and drone technology.

Core High School Program Offerings:

  • Maritime Technology & Engineering High school STEM courses covering ship design, propulsion systems, and marine infrastructure.
  • Ocean Exploration & Marine Science Studies in deep-sea exploration, marine biology, and ocean conservation.
  • Nautical Navigation & Seamanship Practical training in vessel operations, GPS navigation, and port logistics.
  • Maritime Law & Policy Courses on admiralty law, international maritime regulations, and port security legal frameworks.
  • Autonomous Maritime Systems & AI Technology STEM coursework on unmanned underwater vehicles (UUVs), smart ports, and AI-driven maritime systems.
  • Aerial & Underwater Drones in Maritime Operations Training in aerial drones (UAVs) and underwater drones (ROVs) for ocean research, vessel inspection, environmental monitoring, and search & rescue.

Industry Certifications & CTE Pathways

  • Earn recognized credentials in Basic Seamanship, Maritime Safety, Marine Electronics, Logistics, and Drone Operations.
  • Internships & Apprenticeships: Gain real-world experience with maritime industry partners, research institutions, drone technology firms, and government agencies.
  • Workforce Readiness & Career Placement: High school career readiness courses leading to opportunities in maritime transportation, naval engineering, drone piloting, offshore energy, and maritime law enforcement.

Why Choose ACMI & AHSA?

  • A Fully Accredited High School Credit Program
  • A 501(c)(3) Nonprofit Committed to Expanding STEM Education & Workforce Development
  • Part of the American Center for Aviation Innovation STEM Initiative
  • Industry Partnerships with Maritime, Ocean Exploration, & Aerospace Organizations
  • Hands-On Training with Maritime Simulators, Drones, Labs, and Field Research
  • Pathways to Employment or Higher Education in Maritime, Drone, & Ocean Exploration Fields
  • Scholarship & Grant Opportunities for Underprivileged Youth
  • Shaping the Future of Ocean Exploration, Drone Technology & Maritime Innovation

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, ACMI is committed to closing the workforce gap in the maritime industry by providing students with high school credits, industry certifications, and real-world career opportunities. Our graduates are prepared for careers in:

  • Ocean Exploration & Marine Research
  • Shipping & Port Management
  • Maritime Logistics & Supply Chain Operations
  • Naval & Marine Engineering
  • Coast Guard & Maritime Law Enforcement
  • Environmental & Offshore Energy Careers
  • Autonomous Vessel & AI-Driven Maritime Technologies
  • Aerial & Underwater Drone Operations
  • Maritime Law & Regulatory Compliance

Get Involved & Support Our Mission

As a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, ACMI relies on donations, grants, and community partnerships to continue providing high-quality maritime STEM education. We invite students, educators, industry professionals, and donors to join our mission and support the development of a future-ready maritime and drone workforce.

Join us in exploring the future of ocean technology, maritime innovation, and drone applications in maritime industries through high school education and hands-on learning

Ready to Launch Their Dreams ?

Donate Now!

Your tax-deductible donation invests in tomorrow’s innovators, aviators, mariners, and community leaders. By supporting AMCAI and AMCI, you help students acquire the knowledge, skills, and confidence to take flight—both figuratively and literally—and pave the way for a future defined by discovery, collaboration, and bold thinking.

As 501(c)(3) nonprofit organizations, AMCAI and AMCI thrive on the generosity of donors, partners, sponsors, and affiliates who share our belief in the transformative power of experiential education. Every contribution is 100% tax-deductible, ensuring that all support goes directly toward advancing our mission and empowering the next generation through innovative programs.

Registration Number: DTN4031289
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A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING TOLL-FREE (800-435-7352) WITHIN THE STATE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.

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