Grand River Navigation and MITAGS Partner to Train Next Generation of Ships’ Officers on the Great Lakes
No Cost to Accepted Applicants for 2-year Program
Seattle, WA – July 31, 2023 – The Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) is pleased to announce a new offering of its nationally-recognized Maritime Apprenticeship Program (MAP), in partnership with Washington State Ferries (WSF). Applications are being accepted between now and October 30th, and training will commence in February, 2024.
10 applicants will be selected by the Ferry system, and they will receive scholarships valued at over $61,000.00 for the two-year program. The funding will not only cover the cost of course tuition, but will pay students a daily stipend during their mandatory training days onboard Washington State Ferries.
WSF chose to partner with MITAGS as a response to its shortage of licensed deck officers. The MAP provides the fastest track in the industry to the credential needed to operate commercial ships, saving years of time off a traditional, self-paced course of study. Even participants with no prior maritime experience can obtain a U.S. Coast Guard-issued Mate’s license in just over twenty-four months.
“We are so excited to partner with WSF in this effort to help reduce both the regional and nation-wide mariner shortage. Our Maritime Apprenticeship Programs provide an efficient and effective pathway for advancement and have a proven track record for producing and retaining incredibly capable new officers in our industry,” says Jenny Pitzen, MITAGS, Student Instructional Services Manager.
The MITAGS MAP is approved by the United States Coast Guard (USCG), the State of Washington Workforce Training, Education and Coordinating Board (WTECB) and the State of Maryland Higher Education Commission (MHEC). This program is also approved by the United States Department of Veterans Affairs and honors the Post 9/11 GI Bill® for eligible veterans and their dependents.
For more information about the MITAG Washington State Ferries Apprenticeship program visit https://www.mitags.org/maritime-apprenticeship-programs/wsf-program-2024
About MITAGS
The Maritime Institute of Technology and Graduate Studies (MITAGS) is a 501(c)(3) vocational training and maritime research center, and is the primary training center for members of the International Organization of Masters, Mates and Pilots. MITAGS provides practical, high-quality maritime apprenticeships and continuing education programs. Curriculums include standard and custom courses for ship operators, pilot organizations, the armed forces and professional mariners.
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