Building Careers on the Water
On Tuesday, I had the opportunity to meet with Capt. Michael W. Bacher of the Western Pacific Maritime Academy (WPMA) to discuss their important work in training the next generation of mariners here in the Marianas. Since opening in 2021, WPMA has already placed more than 50 local graduates into the U.S. maritime workforce, bringing in much needed tax revenue, while addressing the national shortage of qualified mariners. We spoke about new opportunities to expand WPMA’s training programs and infrastructure, including lifeboat and rescue boat facilities, as well as the potential for a multipurpose training ferry that could also support ecotourism, research, and inter-island transport. I look forward to working with Capt. Bacher and local and federal partners to ensure our people have the skills and opportunities to thrive in this vital industry.