MCARTEC

MCARTEC MCARTEC

The Maritime Cybersecurity Applied Research, Technology and Education Center (MCARTEC) brings together interdisciplinary expertise, strategic partnerships and hands-on learning to advance cybersecurity across the maritime sector. By connecting research, technology and education, the center transforms emerging challenges to practical solutions while helping to prepare the next generation of maritime cybersecurity professionals.

OUR FOCUS

Applied Research Conducting interdisciplinary research that addresses real-world cybersecurity challenges facing the maritime sector and advances the security and resilience of the Marine Transportation System.

Technology Developing, evaluating and applying technologies and practical solutions to address emerging cyber threats and strengthen maritime operations and infrastructure.

Education Preparing students and professionals to meet current and future maritime cybersecurity challenges through education, hands-on learning and workforce development.

Lt. Governor Launches Jobs Initiative, Highlights Cyber Workforce Development

North Carolina Lt. Governor Rachel Hunt visits UNCW to launch her Jobs of the Future initiative, highlighting the university’s leadership in cybersecurity education, hands-on research and workforce development to prepare students to protect critical infrastructure.

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Student demonstrating cybersecurity technology to North Carolina Lieutenant Governor Rachel Hunt during her visit.

UNCW Cyber Conference Highlights Emerging Threats

UNCW’s eighth annual Cybersecurity Conference brought together government, industry and academic experts to explore emerging cyber threats, maritime cybersecurity and innovative approaches to protecting critical infrastructure through research, collaboration and hands-on learning.

Explore the Latest in Cybersecurity at UNCW

Two men converse beside a display of cybersecurity equipment.

Ulku Clark Advances Maritime Cybersecurity

Cameron School of Business Professor Ulku Clark leads UNCW’s maritime cybersecurity efforts, helping protect ports and critical infrastructure while preparing the next generation of cyber professionals.

Meet the Leader Advancing Maritime Cybersecurity at UNCW

MCARTEC Selected as Finalist

MCARTEC has been selected as a finalist for the 2026 NC TECH Awards in two categories: Cybersecurity Innovation and Public Sector Innovation

Explore UNCW’s NC Tech Award Recognition

Ulku Clark speaking at a cybersecurity workshop

UNCW Research Hubs Dive Deep

UNCW's Research Hubs program supports interdisciplinary collaborations to address complex problems beyond individual researchers' reach, serving as the foundation for innovative research partnerships.

Explore UNCW’s Research Hubs

Container Ship Rome Express, flying under the Portugal flag and stretching to 366 meters, comes into the Port of Wilmington fully loaded.

Advancing Maritime Cybersecurity

UNCW faculty Ulku Clark and Jeff Greer presented the Maritime Cyber Resilience Roadmap to the National Security Council’s Maritime Domain Awareness Executive Steering Committee, highlighting UNCW’s role in advancing maritime cybersecurity. The engagement strengthens opportunities for federal partnerships and reinforces UNCW’s leadership in maritime cyber resilience, research and national security.

Explore UNCW’s Maritime Cybersecurity Partnerships

EVENTS

Maritime Cybersecurity in Action

MCARTEC brings together researchers, students and maritime cybersecurity professionals through workshops, conferences, hackathons and other collaborative events that create opportunities to exchange ideas, build connections and engage with emerging challenges in maritime cybersecurity.

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