Innovative and groundbreaking—a partnership between Highline Public Schools, Northwest Maritime Center, and Seattle Maritime Academy (SMA) has officially been established to further address the increasing need for maritime employees. 

Since opening in 2021, it has been the mission of Maritime High School (MHS) to prepare its graduates for maritime careers or post-secondary education to continue marine-related studies. Beginning in the 2023-24 school year, students entering grade 11 can now further advance their maritime career by participating in a two-year Vessel Operations and Maintenance pathway at Seattle Maritime Academy. 

“We are excited to welcome the students of Maritime High School to the Seattle Maritime Academy,” said Dale Bateman, Associate Dean for Seattle Maritime Academy. “The maritime education and certifications students will earn through this program will prepare them for bright careers in the maritime industry.”

The Vessel Operations and Maintenance pathway at Seattle Maritime Academy enables MHS students to complete the academic portions of SMA’s Marine Engineering Technology Program. Following graduation, students will complete an at-sea internship to finish the program and earn endorsement as a Qualified Member of the Engineering Department (QMED). All costs associated with attending Seattle Maritime Academy and earning maritime certifications and screenings will be covered in full for participating Maritime High School students. 

“There are incredible opportunities in maritime careers. We need more collaborations like this if we’re going to connect the incredible opportunities with young people. Bridging the gap between high school, college, and careers is critical,” said Jake Beattie, Chief Executive Officer of the Northwest Maritime Center. 

Students graduating from Maritime High School who have participated in this new pathway program and earned a QMED certification can enter the maritime industry with highly sought-after industry credentials to launch their careers.

“We are excited for our students as they embark on these pathways and are grateful for the partnership with Seattle Maritime Academy,” says Highline Public Schools Superintendent Ivan Duran. “This partnership underscores our commitment to preparing students for the future they choose. Working together with our partners, we equip students with what they need to chart their course in the maritime industry and beyond.”

Maritime High School is currently accepting students entering grades 9-11. The school is open to any student who is interested in maritime studies, whether they live within Highline Public Schools boundaries or not. To learn more or apply to attend Maritime High School for the 2023-24 school year, visit maritime.highlineschools.org.

For more information on how you can get involved with the school, please visit our webpage.