2026 John Veentjer
Youth Maritime Scholarship
About
This scholarship celebrates John Veentjer’s 40+ years of dedicated service to the U.S. Coast Guard, the Marine Exchange of Puget Sound, and the broader maritime community. His work has left an indelible mark on Puget Sound and the industry within it. Created to honor his hard work, mentorship and impact, this award supports Washington State youth pursuing careers in maritime trades, sciences, or operations.
In partnership with The Puget Sound Maritime Historical Society and its Youth Maritime Training Association (YMTA), scholarship awards will range from $2,500-$10,000. These funds can be applied toward college degrees, vocational training, maritime academy programs, trade certifications, or accredited licensing exams & certification courses.
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 are tax-deductible through PSMHS-YMTA and 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.
Eligibility
Young individuals, age 17-24, living in Washington and working toward maritime careers are eligible to apply. Applicant must plan to pursue training, education, or certifications leading to a maritime trades, sciences, operation, or other marine-related career. Learn more about eligibility details here.
Inclusion
The John Veentjer Youth Maritime Scholarship welcomes applicants of all backgrounds, identities, and lived experiences – including but not limited to race, age, religion, gender, sexual orientation, disability, neurodiversity, socioeconomic status, and cultural background. The maritime industry thrives when it reflects the diversity of the communities it serves. We recognize the historic underrepresentation of marginalized groups in Washington maritime careers and actively encourage applicants from all backgrounds to apply with the understanding that opportunity should be accessible to anyone with passion and dedication.
