The Inbreaker Apprenticeship Program is designed to recruit, train, and employ the next generation of commercial halibut and sablefish fishermen.
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The Related Technical Instruction (RTI) is the classroom portion of the apprenticeship which begins familiarizing apprentices with the industry. RTI covers both general maritime courses and fisheries-specific courses taught by veteran commercial fishermen. There is a minimum of 144 hours of RTI coursework prior to progressing to on-the-job training. A general outline of the necessary coursework is shown below:
First Aid at Sea 8 hours
Sea Safety 8 hours
Diesel Engines Course 24 hours
Marine Hydraulics 16 hours
Marine Electrical 16 hours
On-Shore Training 16 hours
At-Sea Training 24 hours
Pre-season Boat and Gear Work 32 hours
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During on-the-job training (OJT), apprentices will work hand-in-hand with existing crew who will function as mentors and aid in the Inbreakers’ development. OJT will start at the beginning of the fishing season in the spring and span through the fall until the season is completed. Apprentices will be paid for their labor during this portion and their earnings will increase with each competency. Competencies include:
Operating Hook and Line Gear
Operating Sablefish Pots
Comprehensive Understanding of Boat Safety Procedures
Maintaining and Repairing Fishing Gear
Navigating Water Vessels
Off-Loading Fish
Cleaning of Equipment and Facilities
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Once the apprentice has been voted to a full share for both halibut and black cod, they will graduate from the program as a journeyman with a position on their sponsoring boat.
Inbreaker Application
Apply here!
Crawford Nautical Director, Jim Johnson explains at the 25 second mark the importance of apprenticeships as a new recruitment method to the maritime industry to improve workforce participation in this video produced by the Washington State Centers of Excellence and Washington State Department of Labor & Industries.
What our apprentices are saying.
“My experience with the Inbreaker Apprenticeship Program was nothing short of exceptional. I felt like I had the best and most knowledgeable instructors in the industry. All concepts were covered in thorough detail. Staff members were very welcoming and helpful.”
— Brandon Kelpis
“One of my favorite things about this program was being able to be hands on with the equipment no matter what we were doing. It really helped me learn the how and why things were being done. Also I really enjoyed having the connections to different people who have been in commercial fishing for years. It allowed me to ask questions and gain insight into the industry I would normally have access to through the internet.”
— Mark O’Brien
“After completing the training, I felt like I had a complete idea and firm grasp of the concepts of commercial longlining and pot fishing. I felt sure of myself and prepared when it came being the Inbreaker on my boat.”
— Brandon Kelpis
“I truly had a great time in the apprenticeship program. The instructors and their knowledge was incredibly helpful. Along with the knowledge everyone was incredibly patient and willing to help me understand each aspect of the program. Not to mention that I also had a lot of fun with the program too!”
— Mark O’Brien
