University News
Western Illinois University Announces Launch of Multi-State Maritime Workforce Consortium
April 17, 2026
MACOMB/MOLINE, IL — Western Illinois University announces the formal establishment of the Corn Belt Ports Rural Logistics & Maritime Training & Education Consortium, a multi-state collaboration designed to strengthen the inland maritime workforce and support economic growth across the Midwest.
The Consortium brings together a broad network of institutions of higher education from Illinois, Iowa, Missouri, and Wisconsin, located along the Upper Mississippi and Illinois Rivers, including WIU, Black Hawk College, Carl Sandburg College, Culver-Stockton College, Eastern Iowa Community Colleges, Illinois Central College, John Wood Community College, Northeast Iowa Community College, University of Wisconsin–La Crosse and Western Technical College.
This newly established partnership aims to expand workforce training, develop clear career pathways, and better align educational programming with employer needs in inland waterways, ports, logistics, and maritime-related industries. Jointly initiated by WIU and Corn Belt Ports, the Consortium represents a first-of-its-kind regional effort to formalize long-term collaboration supporting the workforce that sustains inland commerce.
"Western Illinois University is proud to help lead this collaboration uniting higher education and industry across state lines. The Corn Belt Ports Consortium builds a sustainable talent pipeline to support economic growth and strengthen the Midwest's role in the nation's supply chain," WIU President Kristi Mindrup said.
The launch of the Consortium comes at a pivotal time as federal efforts intensify to strengthen the United States maritime industry and workforce infrastructure. By leveraging regional partnerships and educational expertise, the initiative positions the Midwest as a leader in developing a skilled workforce to meet growing industry demands.
"Western Illinois University has long been a leader in workforce development. This is another example of commitment to economic growth and development in the region," WIU Provost Mark Mossman said.
For more information, contact WIU School of Accounting and Business Assistant Professor Honey Zimmerman at hm-zimmerman@wiu.edu.
Posted By: University Communications (U-Communications@wiu.edu)
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