Northwest Maritime Academy staff participated in the Pacific Marine Expo last week and enjoyed pressing the flesh with some interesting players in the commercial maritime industry.
Below is video footage from our NWMA Weekly podcasters Capt. Benjamin Garman and Chance Busey as they met people at the Expo at Centurylink Field Event Center Nov. 18-20.
Busey (left, below), videographer at Gig Harbor Marina & Boatyard, interviews commercial fisherman Gig Decker from United Fishermen of Alaska.
In Decker's 45 years of fishing and diving experience, territorial male sea lions pose the biggest threat to fisherman safety. Sharks haven't been a problem and octopuses are just plain curious.
Working in the fishing industry in Alaska is a good way to put yourself through college, says Decker. Plus, it's a good way to earn a down payment for a home purchase after just a few years.
Remember "safety first" when choosing which fishing boat captain to go with. As with everything, there are good ones and the not so good.
Check out course offerings under Calendar & Registration at the Northwest Maritime Academy to get started on your career in the maritime industry.