MITAGS Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program (500 & 1600 Ton Ocean Mate)
Launch a maritime career through the MITAGS Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program in Seattle, Washington. This two-year maritime apprenticeship combines classroom instruction, simulator training, and paid onboard experience with leading maritime employers, helping apprentices earn a 500 Ton or 1600 Ton Ocean Mate license while building a long-term career in the maritime industry.
Quick Program Facts
Program Location: MITAGS-West (Seattle, WA)
Program Start Date: March 8, 2027
Application Period: July 6 – September 15, 2026
License Pathway: 500 Ton or 1600 Ton Ocean Mate
Tuition: $48,000
- Six payments over two years
- Lodging not included
- VA Education Benefits accepted for eligible veterans and dependents
Wages: Paid onboard training. Compensation varies by partner company.
The MITAGS Maritime Apprenticeship Program (MAP) is approved by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs to allow eligible veterans and their dependents to use VA education benefits towards their tuition.
APPLY NOW
Submit the following materials to: [email protected]
Required documents:
- Resume
- Letter of Interest
- Professional Letter of Recommendation
- A completed and passed math exam – Math Exam Enrollment Code: MarinerMath. You can email and indicate you have passed the exam. (MITAGS will verify)
Why Choose the MITAGS Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program?
The MITAGS Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program provides a direct pathway into the maritime industry for individuals seeking a long-term career aboard commercial vessels. Based at MITAGS-West in Seattle, Washington, this two-year apprenticeship combines classroom instruction, simulator training, and onboard experience with leading maritime employers to prepare apprentices for positions as licensed deck officers.
No prior maritime experience is required. Through alternating academic and sea phases, apprentices gain practical skills, accumulate valuable sea time, and work toward earning a 500 Ton or 1600 Ton Ocean Mate license, depending on their assigned partner company.
Unlike traditional training programs, this apprenticeship is designed with career placement in mind. MITAGS works closely with industry partners to provide onboard training opportunities and help apprentices build the knowledge, experience, and professional relationships needed for long-term success in the maritime industry.
Train with Leading Maritime Employers
The Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program is supported by respected maritime companies committed to developing the next generation of maritime professionals. Current participating companies include:
Candidate Requirements
Requirements for full admission to all of MAP’s Mate Training Programs are:
- Minimum age of 19
- High School diploma or equivalent (Transcripts may be substituted if they confirm graduation.)
- Eligible for a U.S. Passport (U.S. citizenship is required for this program per 46 CFR 10.221(a)(1))
- Obtain Transportation Worker’s Identification Card (TWIC)
- Hold a USCG Issued Merchant Mariner Credential
- Hold a USCG Issued Medical Certificate – ensure you complete form 719K including Section VIII, Food Handing Certificate. (Do not use the entry level form 719KE)
- Ability to pass the Partner Company’s Physical Exam, when applicable
- Ability to enter Canada
Who Should Apply?
The Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program is ideal for motivated individuals interested in working aboard tugboats, towing vessels, and other commercial workboats.
Successful candidates are often career changers, recent graduates, veterans, and individuals seeking a rewarding profession that combines technical skills, teamwork, leadership, and hands-on work.
Applicants should be prepared for the realities of maritime employment, including extended periods away from home, physically demanding work environments, and the responsibility that comes with vessel operations and crew safety.
Application Process
Ready to take the next step toward a maritime career? Submit the following materials to [email protected] during the application period:
- Current resume
- Letter of Interest addressed to Maritime Apprenticeship Programs*
- Professional letter of recommendation**
- Proof of successful completion of the required maritime math assessment
Letter of Interest
Your letter of interest serves as your introduction to both MITAGS and potential partner companies. Think of it as a cover letter for a future employer. We encourage applicants to explain why they are interested in the maritime industry, what attracted them to the apprenticeship program, and how their skills, experience, and goals make them a strong candidate for a career at sea.
Professional Recommendation
Professional recommendations may come from a current or former employer, coworker, teacher, professor, school advisor, volunteer supervisor, community leader, or another individual who can speak to your character, work ethic, and potential for success in the program.
Maritime Math Assessment
All applicants are required to complete and pass the maritime math assessment before their application can be considered complete.
To access the exam, create an account HERE and verify your email address. If you do not receive the verification email, please check your spam or junk folder. Once your account has been verified, you may enroll in the course using the code below.
A study workbook is available on the site and should be reviewed before attempting the exam. Applicants are allowed two attempts to achieve a passing score and may take time between attempts to review the material or seek additional assistance if needed.
Math Assessment: themaritimeacademy.com
Enrollment Code: MarinerMath
What Happens After You Apply?
Step 1: Initial MITAGS Interview
Once your application is complete, a Program Manager will contact you to schedule an initial interview. This conversation helps determine whether the Workboat Mate Apprenticeship Program aligns with your career goals, expectations, and interests.
During the interview, you’ll learn more about the apprenticeship structure, training schedule, licensing pathway, and the realities of working in the maritime industry. It’s also an opportunity to ask questions and gain a clear understanding of the commitment required to succeed in the program.
For applicants who are a strong fit, the application will move forward to participating partner companies for review. At this stage, the Program Manager may also discuss progress toward obtaining any required credentials and documentation.
Step 2: Partner Company Review & Interviews
Applications selected to advance will be shared with participating partner companies in early October. Company representatives review applications and identify candidates they would like to interview.
Interviews are typically held at MITAGS-West in Seattle during mid-November. Applicants are strongly encouraged to attend in person whenever possible, as it provides the best opportunity to meet company representatives and learn more about potential employment opportunities. Virtual interviews may be available when necessary.
Step 3: Selection & Program Preparation
Final hiring decisions are generally communicated during the first week of December.
Applicants selected for the program will have approximately three months to prepare for the apprenticeship start date in March. This preparation period allows time to complete any remaining credential requirements, make travel or relocation arrangements, and prepare for the transition into the maritime industry.
Questions?
If you have questions about the apprenticeship program, application requirements, or admissions process, please contact: [email protected]