This new collaboration promises an exciting future for students and the industry alike, and reinforces the approach and efforts of the Port Townsend based non-profit that—in addition to its remarkable educational work—publishes 48° North.

Maine Maritime Academy and Washington’s Northwest Maritime Partner to Launch Blue Schools Network in Greater Portland-Brunswick and Midcoast Maine Areas.

Maine Maritime Academy (MMA) and Northwest Maritime are proud to announce a groundbreaking partnership to establish the Blue Schools Initiative in the greater Portland-Brunswick and Midcoast Maine areas. This innovative initiative aims to increase awareness and create opportunities for students to explore careers in the dynamic maritime sector, including vessel operation, marine construction, and marine resources and aquaculture.

The maritime sector has long been a cornerstone of Maine‘s heritage and economy. But despite high-paying careers, the industry is not attracting enough young people to replace the so-called “silver tsunami” of retiring maritime professionals. The need for skilled professionals in maritime fields has never been greater due to the advent of new technologies, environmental challenges, and global efforts to promote sustainable practices

“The Blue Schools Initiative represents a transformative opportunity for our region,” said Craig Johnson, MMA’s President. “By leaning on Northwest Maritime’s expertise and experience, we can inspire a new generation to pursue rewarding careers that support our state’s economy, preserve our marine environment, and advance our proud maritime tradition. This could be a game changer.”

Piloted over the past 20 years by Northwest Maritime in both rural and urban settings in Washington State, the Blue Schools Initiative is a proven approach that connects community assets, and then leverages them for community and student outcomes.

“People always talk about the workforce pipeline. The Blue Schools approach is really about creating a funnel to that pipeline, then improving things every step of the way,” said Jake Beattie, CEO of Northwest Maritime. “The key is broad, integrated involvement: yes K-12 education and colleges, but also employers and opportunities for casual public engagement like maritime festivals and events. We’ve seen impressive results when everyone works together.”

The Blue Schools Initiative focuses on three main objectives:

1. Education and Career Awareness: Students and their families will gain increasing awareness and insight into the diverse careers available in vessel operations, shipbuilding, marine resource management, and the exciting world of opportunities that lie ahead through hands-on learning experiences, community programming, and maritime-infused school experiences.
2. 

   Skill Development: Through cutting-edge training programs, industry certifications, and internships, Blue Schools ensure that students are well-prepared to enter the workforce or pursue higher education in maritime fields.

3. Collaboration Focused: By fostering connections between schools, industry partners, and local community organizations, the Blue Schools Initiative increases the number of opportunities to become engaged as well as the effectiveness of those events in advancing young people into maritime careers.

“Northwest Maritime is thrilled to partner with Maine Maritime Academy to bring this vision to life in Maine,” said Beattie. “We know through experience that this works, and one critical ingredient is an innovative partner like Maine Maritime-especially with someone like Craig at the helm.”

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For more information about the Blue Schools Initiative or to learn how you can get involved, please contact Katelyn Kean (Katelyn@nwmaritime.org).

About Maine Maritime Academy: Maine Maritime Academy, located in Castine, Maine, is a nationally recognized institution specializing in maritime education and training. MMA prepares students for careers in the global maritime industry through rigorous academic programs and hands-on learning experiences.

About Northwest Maritime:  Based in Port Townsend, WA, Northwest Maritime has a broad portfolio of engagement and education opportunities for people of all ages, interests and skill levels: from working with school districts to create Washington’s first standalone maritime high school, to capturing community goodwill and imagination through large scale public events like the Port Townsend Wooden Boat Festival and the Race to Alaska. NWM is dedicated to connecting communities with the maritime world through education, advocacy, and workforce development. The organization provides innovative programs and resources to inspire the next generation of maritime professionals. https://nwmaritime.org/learn/blue-schools/

Title background photo courtesy of Maine Maritime Academy.