At MITAGS, every day we celebrate the dedication, skill, and perseverance of those in pursuit of careers in the maritime industry. During National Apprenticeship Week, we want to spotlight the critical role that training and mentorship play in the cultivation of the next generation of mariners.
Continuum is a guiding principle that sets the foundation for everything we do. Through personalized guidance, hands-on training, and real-world experience, MITAGS Maritime Apprenticeship Programs (MAP) empower new mariners to excel in their careers, while upholding proud traditions of service. From learning the ropes on deck, to mastering advanced navigational systems, maritime apprenticeships provide a pathway to fulfilling careers at sea, and contribute to a dynamic industry with a rich history, and a future on the cutting edge.
We extend sincere gratitude to our industry partners for their unwavering commitment to host and invest in MITAGS maritime apprentices. Contact us to discuss partnership opportunities at [email protected].
MITAGS MAP SPOTLIGHTS
BRANDI SALAZAR
Washington State Ferries MAP 2024
Why did you originally decide to apply for this program as a means of pursuing a career in the maritime industry?
I was inspired to do so by two retired Washington State Ferry captains whom I worked with prior to getting selected for this apprenticeship. I know I want to be a captain eventually and was told this would be a great opportunity to further my career into the pilot house as a licensed deck officer.
What is one important insight you would share with someone considering this program?
Ensure you’re prepared for the program’s blend of academic studies and hands-on training. I’ve also learned the importance of networking with experienced mariners. There are so many people that you will meet through the program who are there to help you with your coursework and share their career experience with you. Also, stay adaptable and open-minded because the apprenticeship will challenge you and is a big commitment, but is worth it!
What is something specific about (your area of the industry) that someone considering this program/license pathway might want to know?
There is a strong demand for skilled mariners so this career is a good choice. I started my career on cruises and enjoyed the travel opportunities but didn’t like being gone for weeks or months at a time. Ferries are a perfect fit for me because I get to enjoy working on the water and doing all the things I love, but I get to come home every night which can be rare in this industry. If you continue on this pathway, by the time you graduate from this program, you’ll hold a 2nd mate unlimited inland license. That’s a big deal. And a great achievement!
What have you found most challenging about the classroom content of this program?
Terrestrial navigation was a challenge because I had to get good at very complicated math and chart plotting skills really quickly. For most of us, we had never plotted a fixed position on a chart before. I had a field day trying to figure out those plotting triangles! As much as you can, I’d advise new apprentices to study ahead, practice your basic math skills, and never be afraid to ask questions when you don’t understand.
PATRICK DOUGAN
Puget Sound Port Captain, Vane Brothers
MAP Workboat 2008 (the first cohort)
Former MITAGS West Instructor
Photo: On the bridge wing of a tanker while I was conducting a multi-barge lightering as cargo specialist in Port Angeles Anchor. I still routinely do this multi-day operation many times a year up there while managing the fleet.
Why did you originally decide to apply for the MITAGS Maritime Apprenticeship Program as a means of pursuing a career in the maritime industry?
I applied for this program in late 2005 expressing interest in a career change after learning that Merchant Mariners get compensated quite high and have an adventurous lifestyle. It was not until I was in class, then underway on a tugboat, that I realized how truly exceptional the program is and how lucky I was to find it. A hiring manager from a great tug company showed up and stated that they would provide a union job, help pay for the school and guarantee me a job for 3 plus years after. I nearly snatched the pen out of his hand to sign the employment agreement as I was enthralled on how great the deal was.
What is one important insight you would share with someone considering this program?
You will be required to make sacrifices but through them, you will establish a career path and be properly compensated. Plan on being gone for weeks-long dispatches, be somewhat introspective, be open to learn from various personalities of crew onboard, and get along with everybody.
What are you doing now? (license level, company, position, etc.)
1600T Master of Towing (license in continuity) Vane Brothers, Puget Sound, Regional Port Captain & Cargo Lightering Specialist
In what ways did the program help shape your current path?
This program was integral for my first steps on the path. The program not only helps direct you on how to attain a Merchant Mariner credential, they provide all of the USCG and STCW-approved courses for you to be the most sought after mariner in the job market. For decades now, a mariner holding a 1600 T license with STCW and Towing Endorsement is basically guaranteed to have a good paying job on the water.
What factors have motivated you to remain in this industry?
Wages and Passion. When you cross the ocean, transit down the coast, through the Panama Canal, up various rivers, make bar crossings from the ocean to a harbor, and generally go where few humans have been, it is difficult to not feel that what you are doing is quite exceptional. There is a line in the preface of Bowditch (the indispensable publication for marine navigators) that hooked me on the line of work immediately: “Seafarers have long memories. In no other profession is tradition more closely guarded. Even the oldest and most cynical acknowledge the special bond that connects those who have made their livelihood plying the sea.” …and to top it off, it pays quite well.
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