Are You The
NEXT GENERATION
Of Maritime Workers?

People with no prior experience can qualify for Coast Guard-approved maritime positions in 12 WEEKS!

Get to Know the Working On the Water (WOW) Ship Handling Instruction Program

What is WOW?

Working on the Water (WOW) is a 12-week introduction to maritime training program. The program is designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and certifications to pursue a career in the maritime and construction sectors. This comprehensive program offers a well-rounded and practical approach to maritime and construction industry training by preparing individuals with the skills, certifications, and job readiness necessary for employment in these sectors. It’s an excellent initiative for those looking to start a career in these fields.

SJI can assist you with food, housing, transportation, childcare, school, clothing, safety gear, and more!

Our Program Partners

Credential Focus

We will help you obtain:

  • TWIC card – background check required
  • Merchant Mariner Card (MMC) – 3rd week of class
  • Standards of Training, Certification and Watchkeeping for Seafarers (STCW)

These credentials make participants employable in the maritime industry, with a specific focus on employment with the Washington State Ferries.

Training Components

  • Ordinary Seamanship Training (2 weeks)
  • Digital Bridge computer classes
  • Job Readiness courses
  • Trade-related certifications — this offers additional certifications that make participants employable in construction trades. Includes OSHA-10, Road Flagging, CPR, First Aid, and Forklift certifications. These skills are transferable and applicable to working on boats as well.

INTERESTED IN LEARNING MORE?

Contact Gloria Nakroshis at 206.513.9833 or at gnakroshis@seattlejobsinit.com

Seattle Maritime Academy onboard training ship

Our Team

With decades of combined social services experience, the WOW maritime team is deeply passionate about connecting individuals with living-wage careers.

Amesha Jewell

Senior Program Manager

Gloria Nakroshis

Program Manager

Maurice Kennedy

Career Navigator

COMPASS was developed by Seattle Jobs Initiative (SJI), Seattle Maritime Academy (SMA) – Seattle Central College, Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS), and Northwest Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology (NWCOEMMT).

The program was made possible by funding from the Washington State Department of Transportation
.