University of Alaska: Fisheries, Seafood and Maritime Initiative – Maritime Works

Abstract

The University of Alaska (UA) Fisheries, Seafood and Maritime Initiative (FSMI) established and facilitated a collaborative to develop a systemic plan addressing workforce shortages in the largest industry sector in Alaska that includes fisheries and harvesting, seafood processing, marine research, ship building and marine services. Originally created as a ‘halo’ program for UA, the FSMI framework for workforce development demonstrates a platform that provides for adaptable leadership and the flexibility to be applicable to single or multiple industry sector occupations simultaneously.  This multi-year project resulted in the Alaska Maritime Workforce Development plan and launched Maritime Works, an industry-led working group that drives talent development through prioritized initiatives supporting the economic drivers of coastal communities throughout Alaska.  The resulting work has created coordination and expansion of UA community campus programing, with state and regional training centers, to address entry-level and professional development training and education aligned with the highest priorities of our industry partners.

Finalist Presentation

UEDA Awards of Excellence Finalists presented at the Annual Summit in Long Beach on October 2-3, 2017. Summit attendees then voted for the best initiative in each category.