BLUE ECONOMY
Hancock County is quickly emerging as a hub for defense and blue technology - a dynamic sector focused on harnessing technology to ensure the sustainable health and economic potential of our oceans.
Bordering the Mississippi Sound and with convenient access to the Gulf of Mexico, Hancock County offers a prime location for blue technology companies, academic institutions, and government research organizations.
REGIONAL ASSETS
The Mississippi Gulf Coast leverages its rich heritage in defense and advanced shipbuilding to propel innovation in the Blue Economy. This legacy positions the region as a hub for expertise and resources.​The Gulf Blue Initiative fosters collaboration between research institutions, government agencies, industry leaders, and entrepreneurs. This powerful synergy fuels the development of groundbreaking Blue Tech solutions that address critical challenges and sustainable growth.​With its unique geography and unmatched maritime resources, the Mississippi Gulf Coast is poised to be a global leader in shaping the future of the Blue Economy.
CLUSTER STATISTICS
22.71
LOCATION QUOTIENT
453
EMPLOYMENT
17
DEFENSE ORGANIZATION
Located in Gulfport, Mississippi, the Gulf Blue Navigator provides a comprehensive package of resources specifically designed to accelerate the growth of promising Blue Technology ventures.
Startups benefit from expert mentorship, access to start of the art facilities, valuable collaboration opportunities. This targeted support helps them overcome obstacles and translate innovative ideas into successful businesses.
HYDROGRAPHY
The branch of applied science which deals with the measurement and description of the physical features of the oceans, sea, coastal areas, lakes and rivers, as well as the prediction of their changes over time, for the primary purpose of safety and navigation and in support of all other activities, including economic development, security and defense, scientific research, and environmental protection.
UNCREWED MARITIME SYSTEMS
Marine vehicles that operate without a human crew onboard. These autonomous vessels are used for various tasks, including scientific research, commercial applications, and military operations. Uncrewed Martime Systems offer advantages such as increased safety, reduced costs, the ability to operate in hazardous and remote environments, and the capacity to operate for extended periods without needing refueling or crew rotation.
CAREER PATHWAYS
The Mississippi Gulf Coast is experiencing a surge in the utilization of uncrewed maritime vehicles (UMVs), also known as “drones of the sea.” These versatile platforms are revolutionizing marine research, ocean exploration, and commercial operations.
To meet this growing demand and support the region’s hydrography industry cluster, local educational institutions have taken a proactive approach by developing comprehensive training programs. These programs equip students with the specialized skills necessary to operate, maintain, and analyze data collected by UMVs.
By investing in this educational infrastructure, the region is not only cultivating a skilled workforce but also positioning itself as a leader in the field of uncrewed maritime technology. This strategic investment will undoubtedly contribute to the ongoing development and success of the local economy.
HYDROGRAPHY
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1
UNCREWED MARITIME SYSTEMS
The University of Southern Mississippi offers comprehensive certificate programs in uncrewed maritime systems (UMS), providing students with the specialized knowledge and skills needed to excel in this rapidly evolving field. The programs cover a wide range of topics, including UMS operations, data analysis, maintenance, and regulatory compliance. By completing our certificate programs, students will be well-prepared to contribute to the growing demand for qualified professionals in the marine technology industry.
UMS CERTIFICATE
TIER 1
Students will learn foundational material in oceanography and ocean engineering related to uncrewed undersea and surface vehicles, such as powered gliders. This 10-credit hour program, compressed into five weeks of instruction, is intended to provide sufficient background to safely operate vehicles in challenging marine environments. Prior to operating with vehicles, students will work with individual electronic workstations and glider kits to provide them with the necessary background knowledge in electronics, materials, batteries, and connectors.
UMS OPERATOR TIER 2
In this follow-on curriculum, students will delve into ocean science and engineering topics, including characteristics of specific platforms and sensors, and physical environmental factors affecting UMS in both operational and research and development settings. This 12-credit hour program, compressed into five weeks of instruction, includes field projects during which student will conduct mission analysis and planning, vehicle and sensor matching, vehicle preparation, launch and recovery, followed by quality review of collected data.
EXISTING CLUSTER
