From Classroom to Coastline: A Look at the Achievements of PTMA Graduates

This week, twelve students became the most recent graduates of our Port Townsend Maritime Academy (PTMA) program, run in partnership with West Sound Tech and the Port Townsend School District. Since its inception in the Fall of 2019, PTMA has enrolled a total of 64 youths. Seven members of this year’s class have gone through multiple programs here at the Northwest Maritime Center and two are moving into summer employment with us serving as deckhands, dock attendants, and sailing instructors. Many of these students have also used their experience and training to launch into viable maritime careers.

Where are past PTMA graduates now?

Let’s take a look at some of our inspiring graduates who are now engaged in the maritime industry:

What is PTMA?

Port Townsend Maritime Academy is a free half-day program that provides juniors and seniors with the opportunity to gain maritime experience, skills, and certifications while exploring different careers in the maritime industry. In addition, students are able to earn up to three credits in English language arts, physical education, and career technical education. Some students plan on pursuing careers on the water or in the marine trades, while others are open to the idea. What all the students share is an interest in learning outside the traditional classroom environment through an experiential, hands-on course of study.

What are some of the hands-on experiences in the PTMA program?

Rowing, Flood Training, Fire Fighting, Immersion Suits, and more!