Maritime Sector Leader
NW Center of Excellence for Marine Manufacturing & Technology

Sector Leader Contacts:

Employer-Identified priority occupations for Career Connected Learning:

  • Marine Electrician
  • Propulsion Technician
  • Aluminum Welder/Fabricator
  • Sailors & Marine Oilers
  • Ship Engineer
  • Captains, Mates & Pilots

Career Connected Learning programs needed to address those workforce priorities:

  • Expanded welding program capacity: Cross-sector demand calls for increased welding program capacity across the state to meet current and projected workforce needs.
  • Contextualized maritime programming: Employers in the maritime sector seek programs tailored to the specific environments, tools, and challenges of the industry.
  • Underway training and sea time opportunities: Student mariners need more access to training that includes sea time to meet current and projected workforce needs.
  • Recognition of transferable skills: Maritime employers value relevant experience from sectors such as construction, agriculture, and aerospace. Programs designed to be cross-sector in nature can widen and accelerate the pipeline.
  • Alignment with industry standards: Both shoreside and afloat employers emphasize the importance of programming aligned with industry standards to ensure students gain practical, applicable skills for maritime careers.

High-impact sector programs supported by CCW and the Sector Leader:

  • Skagit Valley College – Marine Maintenance Technology (MMT) program: This program trains student technicians for careers in the recreational and commercial maritime technology sector. Graduates go on to work in boatyards and shipyards in mechanical and systems environments. The program includes a paid internship and offers students the opportunity to earn certifications from the National Marine Electronics Association and the American Boat & Yacht Council.
  • MAC Welding & Fabrication Project: This initiative has developed a statewide, open-source framework for welding and fabrication training that serves Washington's maritime, agriculture & natural resources, and construction industries. Aligned with OSPI standards and U.S. Department of Labor career clusters, the model is designed to be freely accessible, scalable, and adaptable—enabling educators and employers to co-develop industry-validated training programs that lead to skilled, in-demand careers.
  • Greater Western Washington Pipe Trades Apprenticeship – Marine Pipefitter pathway: This registered apprenticeship prepares students for careers as marine pipefitters, equipping them with specialized skills needed in shipbuilding and marine systems.

Learn More: Explore detailed recommendations in the 2025 Maritime Sector Strategy. You can also view a brief sector strategy summary, discover how to get involved as an employer, or contact the Sector Leader directly for more information.