JV Maritime Scholarship Fundraiser BBQ | Marine Exchange of Puget Sound

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 gathered at Pier 17 to fund the 2027 scholarship cycle. Burgers, beer in a boat, a raffle — yes there was a sword — and a pier full of people who know what this industry is actually about. We recognized the 2026 scholarship recipients, heard remarks from Port of Seattle Commissioner Fred Fellman and presented the inaugural Marine Exchange of Puget Sound Legislator of the Year Award to Representative Reed for her continued advocacy for this community.

Together this community raised $8,141 for the John Veentjer Youth Maritime Scholarship (you all are amazing), and we are still raising funds to hit our $10,000 goal with only $1,859 to go! Every dollar goes directly to Washington youth pursuing careers in maritime trades, sciences, and operations. Last round we were able to award two scholarships and significantly support two maritime journeys. We would love to be able to do that again this year and we are this close.

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.