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Maryland Department of Commerce

Maryland Maritime Task Force

The Maryland Maritime Task Force - PDF - 308.21 KB is responsible for identifying and pursuing national and international maritime-related federal and commercial growth opportunities. Its mission is to strengthen Maryland's maritime industrial base, support business growth and investment, expand manufacturing and supply-chain capabilities, develop workforce opportunities, and advance national security priorities. The Task Force will also support Maryland's broader maritime economy, including tourism, recreation, and working waterfronts.

What the Maritime Task Force Does

  • Prepare Maryland to compete for Maritime Prosperity Zone designation as federal legislation and program requirements are established
  • Recommend state business incentives, tax credits, and economic development tools to support maritime industries
  • Identify legislative and regulatory barriers facing public and private maritime entities and recommend solutions
  • Coordinate state, federal, and international advocacy, workforce training opportunities, and grant programs
  • Engage maritime industries, local governments, workforce organizations, research institutions, and other stakeholders to identify opportunities and strengthen Maryland's maritime economy

Members

  • Harry Coker, Jr. - Secretary, Maryland Department of Commerce
  • Sarah Elfreth - U.S. Representative
  • Portia Wu - Secretary of Labor
  • Josh Kurtz - Secretary of Natural Resources
  • Kathryn "Katie" Thomson - Secretary of Transportation
  • Janeen L. Birckhead - Adjutant General
  • Lisa Swoboda - Director of Office of Military and Federal Affairs
  • Tom Sadowski - Executive Director of MEDCO

Note: An additional industry, government, research, workforce, and maritime representatives section will be added as appointments and designations are confirmed.

Contact

  • Ben McGlaughlin
    Maryland Department of Commerce
    401 E. Pratt Street
    Baltimore, MD 21202
    [email protected]
    443-690-1112

Upcoming Meetings

Note: Information regarding upcoming Task Force meetings, including dates, locations, agendas, and public access information, will be posted on this site as meetings are scheduled.

Meeting Archive