Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro Discusses Education, Partnerships in Maine Visit

Secretary of the Navy Carlos Del Toro recently met with leaders from the Maine Community College System, York County Community College and Portsmouth Naval Shipyard to discuss the importance of education and partnerships in developing a skilled workforce for the Navy.

During his visit, Del Toro also toured the Center of Excellence for Manufacturing and the Trades at YCCC, a product of the collaboration between education, industry and government sectors, the Navy said.

In his keynote address at YCCC’s commencement ceremony, Del Toro, a past Potomac Officers Club event speaker and a 2024 Wash100 awardee, emphasized education’s role in the Navy’s culture of warfighting excellence.

He commended community colleges for providing educational opportunities and for allowing Americans to reach their career goals through world-class education. Del Toro also thanked YCCC and MCCS leaders for their efforts in strengthening the region’s shipbuilding workforce.  

Del Toro reiterated Maine’s critical role in the Navy’s readiness and encouraged graduates to consider careers in maritime service, highlighting the importance of contributing to national defense and the advancement of the nation.

According to the Navy, Bath Iron Works, Pratt and Whitney and PNSY must fill 7,500 positions and upgrade 10,000 workers’ skills over the next five years.