The members of the International Organization of Masters, Mates & Pilots (MM&P) include the world’s best-qualified and most highly trained professional mariners. MM&P represents: licensed deck officers on U.S.-flag commercial vessels sailing offshore, on the inland waterways and on civilian-crewed ships in the government fleet; mariners who work on tug, ferry and harbor tour vessels in New York Harbor and throughout the Northeast; licensed and unlicensed mariners who work on dredges; state pilots; marine engineers; unlicensed seafarers; and maritime industry shore side clerical and service workers. MM&P was created to protect the rights and working conditions of members of the seagoing maritime community. The union fulfills its mission by: representing MM&P members in negotiations with shipowners; supporting the efforts of other maritime unions to achieve decent working conditions; and working with international organizations to improve standards and conditions in the global maritime community.