Kramek’s presentation, ''Challenges Affecting the Safety and Security of Ships and Offshore Installations,'' addressed the obstacles and challenges of maintaining a safe and efficient environment during maritime operations.

''All of us have a bond in the fight of building and designing ships to increase the maritime power of the United States around the world,'' said Kramek. ''A lot needs to be done now in order to make that happen.''

According to Kramek, 90 percent of the world’s commerce occurs by sea at some phase. For this reason, Kramek stressed the importance of providing the best in construction and operation of facilities and crew.

''When you graduate, you’ll be out leading and operating with the best in the world,'' said Kramek. ''Because of that, we need the best engineers in the world constructing the best ships and maritime facilities in the world.''

Kramek discussed challenges facing the maritime industry, including meeting needs, protecting the surrounding environment, safety, security and quality of work. He went on to explain the importance of the ''human element'' in meeting these challenges. According to Kramek, 80 percent of all maritime incidents are caused by the human element, or actions of an individual, and the responsibility of accident prevention lies with the individual.

Kramek emphasized teamwork and care during operations as vital, to provide a quality end product that meets the demands of the future of maritime operations.

''It’s not just ergonomics, it’s the human element in design, in ocean engineering, and operation,'' said Kramek. ''We have an outstanding standard of effort in our industry and it can only be achieved by all working together.''

Kramek is a 1961 graduate of the Coast Guard Academy with a Bachelor’s degree in engineering. He attended postgraduate schools at the University of Michigan, Johns Hopkins University and the University of Alaska. He earned Master of Science Degrees in Naval Architecture and Marine Engineering, Mechanical Engineering and Engineering Management. Kramek served as the 12th Commandant of the Coast Guard from 1994 to 1998.