c.captain, Were I privy to this discussion as John was I would probably not bothered asking many questions. For goodness sake look at who promoted this genius idea. Morgan Marketing and Communications. Look at their nonexistent expertise in world wide shipping. Look at Northeast Maritime Institute, a school which was created to supply STCW required training. Many countries have government supported schools that provide STCW required training at little cost to the mariner but the US chose to go down the path of turning this over to private schools which make a living off of the certification of mariners. I doubt Dawicki can find enough people willing to give him enough money to pursue this idiotic idea. Even a cursory look at the obstacles makes the plan laughable. He would have to have millions to bribe enough congress crooks to get this thru.