The maritime industry offers a wide range of high-impact careers that support communities, protect the environment and keep global trade moving. This video series highlights people working at the Port of Tacoma, The Northwest Seaport Alliance, and across the local maritime industry sharing what they do, how they got there, and what inspires them about working in this field. Their stories reflect the real-world career pathways available through Tacoma Public Schools’ Maritime|253 skills center, opening fall 2026.
New videos are added regularly, so check back often to see what’s next.
Melisa Kegans - Environmental Project Manager
Melisa Kegans works to clean up legacy industrial contamination on land owned by the Port of Tacoma. Melisa’s work aligns with the sustainability pathway at Tacoma Public Schools’ Maritime|253 skills center.
Nicola Graham - Environmental Project Manager
Nicola Graham works to electrify the vehicle fleet serving the Port of Tacoma and marine cargo terminals managed by The Northwest Seaport Alliance. Nicola's work aligns with the sustainability pathway at Tacoma Public Schools’ Maritime|253 skills center.
Kristin Evered - Environmental Project Manager
Kristin Evered develops and maintains Port of Tacoma habitat sites and works on the Port’s environmental programs. Kristin’s work aligns with the sustainability pathway at Tacoma Public Schools’ Maritime|253 skills center.
Graham VanderSchelden - Environmental Project Manager
Graham VanderSchelden works on decarbonizing the maritime industry, including bringing shore power to marine cargo terminals managed by The Northwest Seaport Alliance. Graham’s work aligns with the sustainability pathway at Tacoma Public Schools’ Maritime|253 skills center.
Sara Potter - Environmental Project Manager
Sara Potter oversees the Blair Waterway Deepening Program, which will increase cargo capacity at the Port of Tacoma and create a new habitat site using clean dredge material. Sara’s work aligns with the sustainability pathway at Tacoma Public Schools’ Maritime|253 skills center.
Coming soon!
Videos featuring jobs that align with additional Maritime|253 pathways including:
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Advanced Maritime Manufacturing
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Port Operations and Logistics
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Technology