YMTA

The Youth Maritime Training Association is a program that provides information, scholarship, and grant resources to students in the Puget Sound region. Founded in 1996 by Norm Manly, YMTA began as a single man’s passion for introducing students to boats and some of the careers available on the water. Norm carried the organization for 10 years until he handed the reigns over to Gary Stauffer, a retired NOAA fisheries expert, who shared Norm’s vision.  Gary also ran the organization as a one-man show until 2014 when YMTA found its new home with PSM.

Currently, YMTA awards six or seven scholarships each year, ranging from $1,000 – $5,000. We also attend at least 24 high school career fairs each year, directly engaging with approximately 200 maritime-interested students a year.

Corporate sponsors are critical to YMTA’s mission, providing funding support and networking with students. With more hands on deck, YMTA can do more to support students pursuing maritime careers. Your business or foundation can become part of the YMTA mission by sponsoring a scholarship and providing operating support – Donate Today! Join the long list of distinguished sponsors to date; The Council of American Master Mariners, Foss Maritime, The Goodfellow Fund, The Fremont Dock Co., The Fremont Boat Co., Pacific Maritime Magazine and Philips Publishing Company, Compass Courses, Western Towboat Company, Elliott Bay Design Group, and many others. 

Teachers, check out our YMTA Grant Funding Application for bringing your students to the water, or maritime into your classroom!