Launch Your Maritime Career — For Free!

Join the WAVE Seamanship Readiness Program

Are you ready to start a career on the water?
The Youth Marine Foundation is offering free maritime workforce training through the WAVE Seamanship Readiness Program, funded by the Washington State Department of Transportation.

This program prepares socially and economically disadvantaged young adults and jobseekers to enter careers in Washington State Ferries and the maritime industry — one of Washington’s fastest-growing, high-paying fields.

What You’ll Get:

  • 40 hours of hands-on vessel training aboard a 110-ft training vessel

  • Job readiness coaching and career planning

  • All required credentials (including Merchant Mariner Credential, TWIC card, drug testing, and medical clearance) — at no cost to you

  • Essential gear & equipment (uniforms, PPE, boots)

  • Transportation and meal support during training

  • Weekly stipends to help you focus on your future

  • Connections to maritime employers for real job opportunities

Who Can Apply?

We welcome individuals who are:

  • 18 years or older (17 with parental consent)

  • Washington State residents

  • From socially or economically disadvantaged backgrounds — including but not limited to:

    • Youth aging out of foster care

    • Recently exited juvenile rehabilitation

    • Experiencing homelessness or housing instability

    • Veterans or active-duty military transitioning to civilian careers

    • Women and minority jobseekers entering maritime trades

    • Low-income or underemployed individuals

Why Maritime?

Washington’s ferries, ports, and maritime industries need skilled workers — and you could be one of them! Whether you dream of working on a ferry, operating a commercial vessel, or starting a long-term maritime career, this program is your first step.

Spots Are Limited!

This is a state-funded program, so space is limited. Don’t miss your chance.