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T3 Alaska Program

Maritime Careers Awareness Program

In 2025, T3 Alaska joined forces with the Alaska Workforce Alliance (AWA) to launch a comprehensive maritime career education program. Funded by the Alaska Department of Transportation and Public Facilities, this initiative was designed to address the vital need for a skilled maritime workforce while connecting coastal Alaskan students with high-demand career pathways.

The program successfully equipped a new cohort of students with the technical skills, industry certifications, and professional mindset required to enter the Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) and the broader maritime industry.

Expanding Horizons Across Alaska

Our programming reached diverse coastal communities, providing both T3 Alaska members and non-members in grades 8-12 with the opportunity to explore the ocean-based economy.

2025 Programming Locations:

  • Spring STEAM Fests: Sitka, Wrangell, Seward, and Valdez
  • Fall STEAM Fests: Hoonah, Kake, Ketchikan, Juneau, Kodiak, and Homer
  • Maritime Camps: Anchorage, Juneau, Seward, Ketchikan

Experience Takeaways

By the conclusion of the program, participants emerged with a significant competitive advantage in the workforce:

  • Professionalism: Developed a strong work ethic, leadership skills, and an understanding of industry-specific communication.
  • Career Education: Gained deep awareness of diverse roles within the Deck, Engine, and Steward departments, as well as navigation and piloting.
  • Educational Awareness: Learned about post-secondary training at institutions like AVTEC and the University of Alaska, alongside information on scholarships and financial aid.

Career Readiness & Credentials

A cornerstone of this project was providing students with a clear, supported pathway to professional employment. Students received direct assistance in navigating the rigorous prerequisites for maritime service:

  • Merchant Mariner Credentials (MMC): Students began the multi-step application process to become certified professionals.
  • TWIC (Transportation Worker Identification Credential): Participants visited offices to submit essential paperwork for secure port and vessel access.
  • Safety & Health Certifications: Students earned their Food Handler’s Cards and completed Boater Safety courses (such as Alaska Waterwise).
  • Medical Preparedness: Guidance was provided for obtaining the required medical certificates and physicals for industry service.

The Student Experience

Through a blend of classroom learning and hands-on field intensives, students engaged in a transformative educational journey:

  • Behind-the-Scenes Access: Students participated in exclusive tours of Alaska Marine Highway System (AMHS) ferries, gaining a first-hand look at operations on the water.
  • Immersive Learning: Participants explored maritime technologies, mastered nautical terminology, and engaged in creative problem-solving exercises.
  • Community Connection: STEAM Fests and Career Expos allowed students to interface directly with industry professionals, community partners, and local maritime businesses.
  • STEAM Integration: Students applied science, technology, engineering, art, and math (STEAM) skills through activities like flag identification, knot tying, and building specialized maritime equipment.

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