In their first week of school, Maritime High School (MHS) 12th graders had the opportunity to take their Classroom to the Water and spend the week with Washington State Ferries (WSF). Students were able to engage with the crew—learning about docking, shoreside operations, and the engine room. The students especially loved the tour of the bridge and the maintenance facility in Winslow.
The MHS seniors, now in their fourth year of experiential maritime learning, have completed a year of coursework at Seattle Maritime Academy and Basic Safety Training at MITAGS. Their thoughtful questions and insights impressed the ferry crew. Several seniors expressed interest in careers on the ferries specifically, and many others are planning careers in US Coast Guard-credentialed Deck or Engineering tracks. By the time they graduate, these students will have the qualifications to earn their QMED (Qualified Member of the Engineering Department), the entry-level rating in the engine department.
Though WSF has had engagement programs in the past, this new program developed by Northwest Maritime’s education team in collaboration with WSF crew, is the first time classroom learning objectives have been combined with career exploration on board. The program aims to inspire the younger generation to explore maritime careers and to underscore that these careers are open to anyone regardless of background.
Thank you to Washington State Ferries for working with us to make this possible for Maritime High School students!
