Stephen Carmel

Stephen Michael Carmel is an American maritime executive, merchant mariner, maritime-policy specialist and government official serving as the 21st Administrator of the Maritime Administration (MARAD), an agency of the United States Department of Transportation. President Donald Trump nominated Carmel in May 2025, and he was confirmed by the United States Senate on December 18, 2025.

Before entering government, Carmel spent more than four decades in the maritime industry. He began his career as a merchant mariner and shipmaster before moving into shoreside management and holding senior executive positions at Maersk Line Limited and U.S. Marine Management. Carmel has also participated in maritime and national-security advisory bodies and has written and spoken on maritime security, international trade, globalization and Arctic issues.

Early life and education

Carmel was born in Washington, D.C. and graduated from the United States Merchant Marine Academy in 1979 with a Bachelor of Science degree in marine transportation. He served on the board from 2018 to 2021.

In 2013, the Naval War College Review published his article "Globalization, Security, and Economic Well-Being".

His research interests have included trade, conflict and Arctic regional issues. . On December 18, 2025, the Senate confirmed Carmel by a vote of 53–43 This is the first ever activation of a National Security Multi-Mission Vessel (NSMV). The mission has been classified by the commander of the Military Sealift Command.

Personal life

Carmel is married to Alison Parker. He has 1 child and 3 stepchildren.

Awards and honours

In 2017, Carmel received the Meritorious Public Service Award from the Chief of Naval Operations for his work with the Chief of Naval Operations Executive Panel.

Selected publications

Carmel, Stephen M. (2010). "The Big Myth of Somali Pirates". Proceedings. United States Naval Institute. Carmel, Stephen M. (2013). "Globalization, Security, and Economic Well-Being". Naval War College Review. 66 (1).