$1.19 Million WSDOT Contract Awarded for Maritime Pre-Apprenticeship Program

Seattle Jobs Initiative (SJI), working in partnership with, Seattle Maritime Academy (Seattle Colleges) and the NW Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing and Technology (Skagit Valley College), and Maritime Institute of Technology & Graduate Studies has been awarded a $1.19 Million contract to develop a maritime on-ramp program by the Washington State Department of Transportation. The program will focus on BIPOC young adults and provide the skills and documentation needed to enter maritime careers with the Washington State Ferries and other employers.

“The NW Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology is pleased to support this important initiative expanding access to maritime careers in BIPOC communities, and supporting this critical industry,” said supporting partner Ann Avary, Director of NW Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology. “We’re excited to play a role in this project, led by Seattle Jobs Initiative, and leveraging our shared work in support of the Washington State Maritime Industry.”

The intensive fifteen-day training onramp will prepare participants for WSF/maritime sector careers while providing comprehensive wraparound services and support pre-training to 90 days into employment. Using a human-centered approach and applied learning all participants will complete the program with the necessary foundation and certificates to immediately begin work, commence advanced training, or pursue post-secondary maritime studies.

The NW Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology is pleased to support this important initiative expanding access to maritime careers in BIPOC communities, and supporting this critical industry.

-Ann Avary, Director of NW Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology

“The first barrier to starting a Maritime Career is knowing about the amazing opportunities the industry provides,” said Ryan Davis, SJI Executive Director. “Working for the Washington State Ferries is not just a job, it’s a career providing critical infrastructure to our region. We look forward to supporting the next generation of maritime workers representing the diverse communities across Puget Sound.”

SJI and the consortium are committed to providing long-term solutions for a diverse workforce to sustain the maritime sector and serve the residents of Washington state.