Rockwood retired from Military Sealift Command in 2018 after sailing for 34 years including 18 years as master.  He holds a license as Master, Unlimited Tonnage Upon Oceans and Master, Towing Vessels Upon Oceans and Western Rivers.   He commanded 21 vessels, some more than once including the plank owner master USNS LEWIS AND CLARK (T-AKE1) the first dry cargo/ammunition ship designed exclusively for civilian operation.    A particular highlight of his career was commanding USNS COMFORT (T-AH 20), one of two civilian operated USN hospital ships.  He deployed on Continuing Promise 2011 to bring medical care to nine countries of Central and South America.

Rockwood began as a full time maritime instructor at Mid-Atlantic Maritime Academy upon retirement. He is approved to teach over 60 courses and focused predominantly upon bridge simulator courses including Bridge Resource Management, Basic and Advanced Shiphandling.

Now as Vice President Curriculum, Compliance and Audit he has coordinated the transfer and consolidation, renewals, and auditing of courses to ensure Maritime Institute remains a respected leader in maritime training from coast to coast.   In his off time he grows vegetables, kayaks, fishes and generally appreciates not being at sea any longer.