IYRS School of Technology & Trades announced Wednesday the launch of a Maritime Leadership Institute and named Kristin Urbach its managing director.
The institute will offer leadership development for maritime professionals, with programs aimed at building teams, managing change and problem-solving in maritime workplaces — an extension of the school’s technical training into management.
“The maritime industry is changing rapidly, and its future depends on leaders who understand both the technical demands of the work and the people who make it possible,” said IYRS President Kern Maass.
Urbach has more than two decades of executive experience spanning nonprofit, business, workforce development and economic development in the blue economy sector. She currently serves on the Connecticut Port Authority Board of Directors.
“MLI will give maritime professionals the leadership skills, relationships, and practical industry-led experience they need to lead with confidence, strengthen their organizations, and create greater opportunity for the people and communities they serve,” Urbach said.
Founded in 1993 as the International Yacht Restoration School, IYRS is a nonprofit, ACCSC-accredited school on the Newport waterfront whose graduates work in marine, automotive, aerospace and composites industries.
More information and an interest list are at iyrs.edu/maritime-leadership-institute.
