About CAEMP
An independent, nonpartisan maritime policy research center
The Center for American Energy and Maritime Policy (CAEMP) is an independent, nonpartisan policy research center founded by maritime professionals with decades of operational experience. We produce rigorous analysis on U.S. maritime policy, energy logistics, and industrial competitiveness—grounded in evidence and informed by firsthand experience at sea and ashore.
Mission
Evidence-based research to inform U.S. maritime and energy policy
CAEMP’s mission is to improve the quality of decision-making on U.S. maritime policy and energy logistics through independent, nonpartisan research.
We prioritize clarity, methodological transparency, and operational realism—producing analysis that is useful to policymakers, industry, and the public.
Research methodology
CAEMP produces evidence-based analysis drawing on government reports, academic literature, industry data, and firsthand maritime operational experience.
Sources & synthesis
Triangulating evidence across multiple inputs
We synthesize findings from primary government documents, peer-reviewed research, and industry datasets, and then test conclusions against operational constraints observed in maritime practice.
Analytic approach
Clear assumptions, replicable reasoning
Our work states assumptions, defines terms, and distinguishes between descriptive findings and normative recommendations. Where possible, we use transparent comparisons and sensitivity checks to show how conclusions change under different inputs.
Operational grounding
Informed by maritime practice
CAEMP’s research is informed by firsthand maritime operational experience, including shipboard operations, safety management, and logistics realities. This perspective helps ensure that analysis reflects implementable constraints—not just theoretical models.
Our focus areas
A modern maritime strategy for energy security and prosperity
Energy security
Strengthen reliable domestic energy transport and reduce strategic vulnerabilities.
Shipbuilding competitiveness
Enable U.S. yards to build modern vessels efficiently and compete globally.
Mariner workforce
Support American mariners with forward-looking standards and training pathways.
National readiness
Improve sealift capacity and maritime resilience for emergencies and defense needs.
About CAEMP
Independent, nonpartisan maritime policy research
The Center for American Energy and Maritime Policy (CAEMP) is an independent, nonpartisan policy research center founded by maritime professionals. We publish rigorous, evidence-based analysis on U.S. maritime policy, shipbuilding competitiveness, and energy security to inform legislators, defense planners, industry leaders, and the public.
Our work focuses on questions where maritime operations, energy logistics, and national resilience intersect—including the Jones Act, domestic shipbuilding capacity, mariner workforce policy, vessel manning and automation, and the relationship between commercial shipping and defense readiness.
We aim to separate what the evidence shows from what policy choices imply, and to present findings in a form that is usable for decision-makers.
Research approach
CAEMP’s work is evidence-based and transparent. We draw on government data and reports, academic literature, and industry datasets, and we interpret those sources through the lens of firsthand operational knowledge. We define the policy question, test assumptions against available evidence, and assess tradeoffs and implementation constraints—so recommendations are grounded in what can be executed safely and effectively.
Who we are
Independent research, informed by operational experience
CAEMP is an independent, nonpartisan policy research center founded by maritime professionals with decades of operational experience. We focus on questions where maritime operations, energy logistics, and national resilience intersect.
Our work is designed to be useful to decision-makers. We begin with clearly defined policy questions, review the best available evidence, and evaluate tradeoffs and implementation constraints. We aim to separate what the data show from what policy choices imply.
Modernization is not a departure from strategic maritime policy—it is how we sustain it in a changing world.
Capt. Richard Phillips, Executive Director
We draw on government reports, academic literature, and industry data, and we interpret those sources through the lens of firsthand maritime operational experience. This approach helps ensure that recommendations are grounded in what can be implemented safely and effectively.