John Keever

Vice President for Marine Programs and Student Development

Captain John Keever is the vice president of marine programs and student development. In this capacity he has responsibility of overseeing the daily activities of the Corps of Cadets, Cal Maritime’s leadership development program, the training of new Corps officers, and watch standing. In addition to these duties, Captain Keever serves as the Commanding Officer of the 500-ft. Training Ship GOLDEN BEAR, which each year takes students from Cal Maritime around the Pacific Rim countries to further their understanding of the cultures and economics of the region, while gaining experience in the operation of a large vessel.

An alumnus of Cal Maritime, Captain Keever served in positions at sea and ashore —including positions with Sealand Services, States Steamship, and the Army Corps of Engineers — prior to starting his career at Cal Maritime in 1974 as an assistant professor.
He is a tenured professor of maritime management and has taught atmospheric science, meteorology, seamanship, and navigation. Previously, he has also served as department chair of maritime management and as vice president for administration and finance.

Captain Keever is a co-author of the American Merchant Seamans Manual, (Cornell Maritime Press), and the Manual for Lifeboatman, Able Seaman, and Qualified Members of the Engine Department (also Cornell Maritime Press).

Captain Keever is a member of the Council of American Master Mariners, the Propeller Club of the USA, the Ship Operators Cooperative Program, and the Association of Maritime Education and Training Institutions in Asia Pacific. He was a member of the United States Delegation to the 2003 IMO-MSC-STCW Convention.

Captain Keever graduated from The California Maritime Academy with a Bachelor of Science degree in nautical science. He received his master’s degree in public administration from Golden Gate University.

Captain Keever lives in Grass Valley, California with his wife, Lindy.