About Us
The National Spill Control School was established in 1974 and was named as a consulting, training, and research resource for the National Response Team in the Oil Pollution Act of 1990. The NSCS offers specialized hands-on OSHA-mandated training for professionals and workers in the Oil Spill, HAZMAT, and Emergency Management industries as well as others in exploration, production, and transportation who deal with spill prevention, planning, and response. In addition to training response personnel, industrial workers, and military personnel, the NSCS supports the National Response Team's Strike Force with consulting and research as requested. The NSCS is a nationally recognized facility for oil spill research activities.
Our Leadership
Dr. Keith Muhlestein serves as Director of the National Spill Control School at Texas A&M University–Corpus Christi, where he advances a mission built on leadership, preparedness, environmental stewardship, and real-world emergency response.
His vision for NSCS is grounded in a fundamental principle: true preparedness is built before the emergency begins. By connecting academic and industry experience, government partnerships, applied research, and hands-on training, Dr. Muhlestein works to ensure that responders are prepared not simply to meet standards, but to perform effectively when conditions are at their most demanding.
Under his leadership, NSCS strengthens the critical connection between science and field operations, education and experience, and training and readiness. His commitment to continuous improvement and collaborative learning is helping build a stronger safety culture throughout the Coastal Bend and beyond—preparing professionals to protect responders, communities, critical infrastructure, and the environment when it matters most.
Our Course Offerings
- Emergency Communications and Radio Operations
- HAZWOPER and Hazardous Materials Handling
- Marine Oil Spill Response
- Leadership in Emergency Response
- Incident Command System (ICS)
- Spill Response on Land and Sea
- International Maritime Organization (IMO) Shipping and Cargo Handling
- Oil Spill Strategies and Tactics
- NOAA Shoreline Clean-Up Assessment Techniques
- Environmental Sampling and Analysis
- Responding to Spills on Land
- Environmental Regulations
- Boat Handling, Operations, and Safety
Our Services
Site Safety Planning: Under Dr. Muhlestein's leadership, NSCS offers comprehensive site safety planning services tailored to the unique needs of industries and communities in the coastal bend. With a focus on practical solutions, NSCS develops robust safety plans that align with regulatory standards and industry best practices. These plans are designed to mitigate risks and enhance the overall safety culture of organizations operating in environmentally sensitive areas.
On-site Drills and Exercises: Recognizing the importance of hands-on experience, NSCS, under Dr. Muhlestein's guidance, conducts on-site drills and exercises. These practical sessions simulate real-world scenarios, allowing participants to apply their knowledge in a controlled environment. Through realistic and scenario-based training, NSCS ensures that individuals and teams are well-prepared to respond effectively to spills and emergencies, minimizing environmental impact.
Custom Services: Understanding that one size does not fit all, NSCS, led by Dr. Muhlestein, offers custom services to meet the specific needs of diverse industries and demographics in the coastal bend region. Whether it's tailoring training programs, developing specialized curricula, or providing industry-specific guidance, NSCS delivers solutions that address the unique challenges faced by each client.
Our Location
Support Us
NSCS plays a critical role in training first responders, government agencies, and industry professionals in spill response. Your support helps educate and train the next generation of environmental professionals. Well-prepared individuals are more equipped to tackle environmental challenges and contribute to sustainable solutions. Supporting the National Spill Control School at Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi is an opportunity to make a positive impact on environmental protection, disaster response preparedness, education, and research. Your support can contribute to a more sustainable and resilient future.