DEVELOPING ALASKA'S MARITIME WORKFORCE

Alaska's maritime industry, from its largest cities to smallest villages, represents 70,000 jobs. In fact, studies have shown that Alaska ranks third in the nation per capita for maritime jobs. The waters surrounding Alaska produce 60% of the nation's seafood harvest. Our state is highly dependent on maritime shipping for imports of food and other goods, and for exports of oil, seafood and minerals. Alaska's economy is boosted annually by hundreds of millions of dollars generated from water transport. This includes bringing visitors on cruise ships, running halibut charters, traveling on Alaska's Marine Highway and supporting subsistence hunting and fishing.

These opportunities require a responsive workforce that enables the maritime sector to remain a substantial contributor to the state. Through the implementation of the Alaska Maritime Workforce Development Plan, Alaska's workforce can be guided to discover and prepare for the wide range of employment opportunities. Click here to learn more.