Info for New Participants
Planning Your Visit
Located among New Bedford’s working waterfront – America’s most valuable commercial fishing port – and minutes from both the Foss Marine and Marine Commerce Terminals, the NOWI is strongly positioned alongside the upcoming and existing maritime industries.
In addition to its advanced marine capabilities, New Bedford provides visitors with an immersive cultural experience. The downtown district features unique architecture, a thriving arts community, and a variety of restaurants, shops, and hotels.
- Less than 3 mins to New Bedford’s historic downtown.
- 3 minutes to New Bedford State Pier, Seastreak Ferry.
- 3 minutes to Foss Marine Terminal.
- 6 minutes from Marine Commerce Terminal.
- Less than 1 minute from downtown South Coast Rail Commuter Station.
- 10 minutes from New Bedford Regional Airport.
- 40 minutes from T.F. Green International Airport.
- 1 hour from Boston Logan International Airport.
Hotels
Dining
See a map of Downtown New Bedford restaurants here. Click Filters > #eatDNB.
About Your Training
Arrival: The NOWI opens at 7:30 a.m. Class begins promptly at 8 a.m. Participants are encouraged to arrive with enough time to check in and grab a refreshment. Late arrivals risk being unable to attend the training. Refunds for tardiness are not provided.
Meals: A morning refreshment, lunch and beverages are included in the course cost. Food and beverages may not be carried off campus and are strictly prohibited in the Practical Training Area. Your instructor will dismiss you for breaks and lunch.
Electronic Devices: The use of personal electronic devices during training is prohibited.
ID: You MUST bring a valid government-issued ID to class. Those without photo IDs will be unable to participate in training.
Weight Restrictions: Due to weight limitations for our equipment, individuals exceeding 265 pounds are not able to participate in trainings that utilize our ladders, harnesses and other climbing gear. Students who are participating in such modules will be weighed on the first day of the course.
Attire: Please wear work clothing that is comfortable and flexible. Shorts are not allowed for safety reasons. Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) will be provided (protective shoes, eyewear, gloves, and/or helmet). If preferred, you may bring your own PPE.
Physical Demands: Our GWO Basic Safety Training, GWO Advanced Rescue Training, GWO Working at Height, GWO Sea Survival and associated refreshers contain activities that are physically demanding and stressful. Participants will be expected to climb 30 feet, lift heavy objects, and complete water-based practical exercises. You will be asked to complete a medical self-assessment at the start of each class day stating that you are physically fit and able to complete the exercises. Participants must sign a liability waiver at the start of their course.
Assessment: Participants will be assessed on their competencies, safety and attitude. Participants will either "Pass" or be deemed "Not Yet Competent."
Valuables: Participants are responsible for all personal valuables throughout training. Please plan accordingly.
Smoke-Free Campus: Bristol Community College and the NOWI are tobacco and vaping-free facilities. The use of tobacco is prohibited within college buildings, walkways, in college or state fleet vehicles, and on college-owned property, not otherwise leased to another organization. This policy applies to all faculty, staff, students, contractors, vendors and visitors at all locations.
NOWI Location
198 Herman Melville Blvd., New Bedford, MA 02740.
Hours of Operation
8 a.m. to 4 p.m.