JV Youth Maritime Scholarship
Fundraiser BBQ
June 25, 2026 | Harbor Island, Pier 17 | 5:00-8:00 pm
Beer. BBQ. Boats. And scholarships
for the next generation of WA mariners.
The maritime industry around Washington takes care of its own. It’s just what we do. The John Veentjer Youth Maritime Scholarship exists to do exactly that. People who have built great careers on this water decided to make sure the next generation gets a fair shot at doing the same.
On June 25th, we’re gathering at pier 17 to fund the 2027 scholarship cycle supporting Washington youth pursuing careers in maritime trades, sciences, and operations.
Burgers, beer in a boat, a raffle, and a cause worth showing up for. We’ll be recognizing the 2026 scholarship recipients and we’ll be joined by Washington State Representative Julia Reed.
No dress code. No fancy venue. Just a place that means something to us, people who know what this industry is actually about, and a chance to help the next wave of mariners coming up behind us.
Can’t attend? Support the scholarship with a donation below.
Donations
Every maritime journey looks different – your support opens multiple pathways to success for Washington’s youth and each of their unique pathways into a maritime career. All donations directly fund opportunities like:
– $280 – Covers a USCG Able Seaman licensing exam; a critical step toward deckhand careers.
-$600 – Covers 1 month in the Marine Engineering Technology Program at the Seattle Maritime Academy that provides students with a Coast Guard-approved certificate upon completion and launches them directly into Washington Maritime jobs.
-$1,000 – Covers one month of tuition at Cal Maritime where cadets earn bachelor’s degrees and 90% secure industry jobs (not including books, housing or associated fees). This is comparable to other out-of-state Universities or Maritime Academies.
About the Scholarship
The John Veentjer Youth Maritime Scholarship was created to honor John’s impactful career, dedicated service, and mentorship within the maritime industry. Through this scholarship, we aim to remove financial barriers to education, training, and licensing for dedicated young people pursuing maritime careers. In partnership with The Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society and its Youth Maritime Training Association (YMTA), it will provide scholarships ranging from $2,500 to $10,000 to students aged 17-24 in Washington State who are passionate about entering maritime professions. Learn more about the scholarship here.
