Focus Areas

Maritime|253 will play a big role in preparing workers for maritime jobs in the South Puget Sound Region and beyond. Our programs will help students build skills in ship operations, safety, environmental responsibility, leadership, and new technology. We understand that maritime is a global industry that needs a well-trained and skilled workforce with a wide variety of knowledge and experiences.

We are working to make sure more students have opportunities to receive the training needed to succeed in the maritime industry. Students from across the region will have access to programs at no cost. We will emphasize learning how to work well with people from different backgrounds, helping to build a stronger, more welcoming maritime industry.

Sustainability: Fall 2026

Our first workforce development program at M|253's Skills Center emphasizes maritime sustainability through innovative training in alternative green energy technologies, fostering a skilled workforce ready to lead the industry towards a more environmentally conscious future.

Program Outcome Targets: Green Technology Applications, Environmental Management and Operations, Renewable Energy Integration, Eco-friendly Shipbuilding/Maintenance Techniques, Marine Pollution Prevention and Control, Coastal Conservation and Restoration Strategies, Climate Change Adaptation, and Intern/Externship Opportunities in the Maritime Technology Industry.

Transportation: Fall 2026

Implementing a strategy encompassing career advancement and skill enhancement, the maritime transportation program at the M|253 Skills Center will afford participants to hone specialized skills such as vessel operation, marine safety protocols, navigational techniques, and maritime logistics management, ensuring their readiness for careers in the maritime industry.

Program Outcome Targets: Seamanship Skills, Navigation, Marine Safety and Emergency Procedures, Vessel Operations and Handling, Engineering Fundamentals, Maintenance, Intern/Externship Opportunities in the Maritime Transportation Industry.

Technology: Fall 2026

The workforce development-focused maritime technology programming at the M|253 Skills Center emphasizes hands-on training in navigation systems, marine engineering, and maritime safety protocols to prepare students for careers in the maritime industry.

Program Outcome Targets: Remote Operated Vehicles (ROV), Marine Computer Science Applications, Cyber Security, Communications, Drone Surveying, and Intern/Externship Opportunities in the Maritime Technology Industry.

Logistics: Fall 2026

Maritime logistics programming at the M|253 Skills Center focuses on practical training from a career-oriented educational viewpoint focusing on navigation, cargo handling, and supply chain management, equipping participants with the specialized skills needed for success in the maritime industry.

Program Outcome Targets: Logistics Management, Mechatronics/Automation, Supply Chain, Inventory Control, Warehouse Operations, Freight Forwarding, Port Operations, Safety and Security, and Intern/Externship Opportunities in the Maritime Logistics Industry.

Manufacturing: Fall 2026

M|253's maritime manufacturing program emphasizes hands-on training in welding proficiency, advanced machining skills, with an evolution to shipbuilding techniques through demonstration of proficiency in a variety of tools, machines, and industry endorsed practices.

Program Outcome Targets: Manufacturing Processes, Manufacturing Technology, Welding Techniques and Fabrication, Materials Science, Design, Construction, and Intern/Externship opportunities in Maritime Manufacturing Industry.

Skilled Trades: Fall 2026

The Maritime|253 pathway in skilled trades offers students a comprehensive curriculum focused on developing expertise in plumbing & pipefitting, electrical, and carpentry applications within the maritime industry. Students engage in hands-on training to master essential skills and techniques, ensuring proficiency in each trade.

Program Outcome Targets: Install/Repair Plumbing and Pipe Systems, Electrical Wiring and Circuitry, and Carpentry with Intern/Externship opportunities in Maritime Manufacturing Industry.