In the fall of 2013, the College of Business at Nicholls State University, in collaboration with industry, launched a 4-year Bachelor's program in management specifically designed to train graduates for employment in firms competing in the oil and gas sector of the maritime industry. The development and implementation of this maritime management concentration serves as a model of successful industry-university collaboration. The result is enhanced value for graduates, firms and the region. Such alliances are an increasingly critical component of higher education as traditional sources of funding continue to decline across the country. In addition, relationship building results in courses and content that better prepare students to meet workforce needs. Strategic advice is offered to higher education programs and colleges contemplating collaborative relationships between academia and industry.