MITAGS is excited to welcome Ben Sleister as our new Program Manager for Marine Safety Programs. Located at our west coast campus, Ben is a great new addition to our team! He will be leading and managing all of our Marine Safety Programs, including the US Navy firefighting/damage control training, civilian/USCG firefighting programs, and safety training at our west coast campus.
Ben’s experience includes Damage Control Assistant, Navy SWO and teaching at the US Naval Academy.
In addition as part of this transition, MITAGS-West Ginger Veighey, former Operations Coordinator, Marine Safety, has recently taken on the new role of Assistant Program Manager, Marine Safety Programs, reporting to the Program Manager.
Ben joined MITAGS at the end of 2021 and manages firefighting and marine safety programs at our west coast campus. A former Naval Officer, Ben got his start at sea serving as a Surface Warfare Officer in the Pacific Fleet. He is a qualified Officer of the Deck, Engineering Officer of the Watch, Tactical Action Officer and Craftmaster.
After leaving active duty, Ben worked on towboats and barges on the Chesapeake Bay. Over the years, he has also been called a park ranger, meter reader, golf cart cleaner, referee, lifeguard, plumber, EMT, electrician, teacher and line cook.
Originally from Georgia, Ben has a Bachelor’s degree in engineering from the University of Georgia and studied Wilderness Medicine at the National Outdoor Leadership School. In his free time, he can be found exploring the mountains on foot, skis and the sharp end of a rope. His wife Erin is by far the superior mariner and continues to serve as an officer in the Navy.
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