PORT TOWNSEND — DNV, a global leader in classification, certification and technical advisory services, presented a $10,000 check to Northwest Maritime.

Jake Beattie, CEO of Northwest Maritime, expressed gratitude for DNV’s support, acknowledging the role it plays in advancing maritime education.

“Getting students connected to hands-on, climate-informed learning is critical for creating connected citizens and the inspired workforce of the future,” Beattie said. “DNV’s vision and support is key to making that future a reality.”

Gregor Madden, area manager, North America West for DNV Maritime, and Gopal Nair of DNV presented the check to Beattie on July 25 at the Northwest Maritime campus, 431 Water St. in Port Townsend.

Northwest Maritime, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, is dedicated to engaging and educating individuals of all ages about both traditional and modern maritime practices. Its Maritime Discovery Schools initiative has provided place-based education in collaboration with the Port Townsend School District since 2012. The program annually serves hundreds of students, offering them hands-on maritime learning experiences.

Antony DSouza, regional president of DNV Maritime, emphasized the alignment of DNV’s values with those of Northwest Maritime.

“For 160 years, our purpose has been to safeguard life, property and the environment,” DSouza said. “Partnering with like-minded institutions helps us carry it forward. Northwest Maritime’s Blue School Initiative is an exemplary program that inspires youth to become the stewards of our oceans and future maritime workers and leaders.”

In 2019, NWM expanded its educational impact by partnering with the Highline School District, the Port of Seattle and the Duwamish River Community Coalition to establish Maritime High School (MHS). As the state’s first standalone high school with a maritime focus, MHS integrates project-based learning with maritime career opportunities, thereby opening pathways to both employment and higher education for students.

The Blue Schools Initiative builds on those programs to further maritime education, workforce development and regional connection to the sea. The project seeks to expand maritime learning opportunities and reinforce the ties between local communities and the maritime industry.

The Pacific Northwest, including Port Townsend and Washington state, represents a strategic location for DNV’s efforts, according to a press release. The region’s cultural and business ties, coupled with DNV’s involvement in Gov. Jay Inslee’s Washington Maritime Blue program, highlight the company’s dedication to innovative projects aimed at decarbonizing maritime transportation networks.

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Reporting intern Christopher Urquia is a student at Peninsula College. He can be reached by email at christopher.urquia@peninsuladaily news.com.