We promote personal responsibility and awareness, life-saving and safety-at-sea skills, environmental responsibility and awareness, and maritime and equal opportunity for aspiring professional mariners.
What we do
We put people to work through USCG-approved maritime training.
Who we serve
Public and private high school systems
Secondary or post-secondary degree-granting institutions
Eligible persons wishing to attain a USCG Merchant Marine Credential (MMC) or USCG-approved training
Seafarers already holding an MMC who wish to maintain or upgrade their maritime credentials
Mission
To provide pathways to maritime opportunities through USCG-approved training and job placement.
Values: F.I.R.S.T.
Fair
We will never discriminate. The Academy shall admit students or trainees of any race, color, national or ethnic origin to all the rights, privileges, programs and activities provided.
Integrity
Always. In all of our training and business dealings, we will ensure we say what we do and do what we say.
Respected
In our relentless pursuit of excellence, we will strive for a reputation of reliability and consistency with our students, trainees, and partners.
Safety first
We will always put safety first. In or out of the classroom, the Academy will always ensure a priority in the safety of our students and trainees.
Training
Excellence. The academy will always endeavor to provide the best in maritime training and academic programs through partnering with outstanding recognized institutions and implementing continual improvement.
Our Staff
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Michael Bacher
Executive Director
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Captain Dave Johansen
VP Operations / Instructor / Trustee
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Captain Randy Brown
Instructor
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Captain Mike Harkreider
Instructor
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Captain Holly Graf
Instructor
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Captain Richard Madden
Instructor
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Francisco Villagomez
Transportation Coordinator
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Kim Sosa
Program Director
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Frances Ada
Office Manager
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Jolina Brel
Academic Advisor
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Ellicyn Aguon-Presto
Curriculum Administrator
Our Trustees
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Captain Dave Johansen
President
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Kody Skvaril
Vice President
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Captain Tehani Kirby
Secretary
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Captain Cecilio Raiuliulipiy
Treasurer
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Honorable Diego Benavente
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Honorable Ramon Tebuteb
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Robert Bracken
Rest in Peace Bob, WPMA will miss your guidance.
We believe in promoting, establishing, and participating in education and training programs that will encourage students to engage in self-sustaining careers in both the Merchant Marines and military services.
Our Stories in the News
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