Amanda Symonds has been named president of Chesapeake Marine Training Institute at Hayes.

Symonds has worked at CMTI for 17 years, having held positions as license consultant, office manager and general manager.

A Gloucester resident, Symonds thanked Capt. Guy Sorensen, founder of CMTI, for the opportunity to run the company. Although Sorensen has seen the school grow significantly, she said she has some ideas for future growth.

CMTI offers a large number of maritime classes throughout the year, Symonds said, with students coming here from many states including those as far away as the West Coast and from some foreign countries. Symonds said it is important to stay abreast of an ever-changing industry and offer a large selection of relevant courses. She said that the maritime industry has changed, with more reliance on computers and advanced technology.

“I’m excited about what the future holds for me and the company as a whole,” she said.

Symonds is a graduate of...