The Port of Vancouver USA received port industry awards for partnering with Cascadia Technical Academy to launch the region’s first Maritime Technology Program for high school students in the 2025-2026 school year.

The awards were presented at the American Association of Port Authorities (AAPA) convention in New Orleans, an annual event hosted by the association representing port leaders and maritime industry partners across the Western Hemisphere.

Port of Vancouver USA commissioners welcomed students entering Cascadia Tech’s Maritime Technology program in September 2025.

“From key roles supporting vessel operations to logistics and maintenance, building a strong workforce for the future of the maritime industry is essential,” said Julianna Marler, port CEO. “We’re proud to win AAPA’s Lighthouse Awards in recognition of our port teaming up with Cascadia Technical Academy as well as our regional port partners to help fill these good-paying jobs tomorrow and beyond.”

Proximity to maritime activity was a high priority for Cascadia Tech, so the port made an existing facility located along the Columbia River available for use as a classroom for students interested in exploring this industry. Cascadia Tech worked with the Port of Vancouver USA, other ports in the region and additional partners to align its curriculum with local employers, Columbia River activity and Southwest Washington career opportunities.

“We so appreciate our partnership with the Port of Vancouver USA that allowed this maritime training program to come together,” said Colton Edmiston, Cascadia Tech’s Maritime Technology Program Instructor. “Nothing can inspire high school students to pursue these careers like putting them at a port where they have a front row view to a working river environment.”

At the September 28 award ceremony, the port won three separate awards for its partnership with Cascadia Tech – including the Beacon of Excellence award recognizing the single most impactful submission. The port also took home an Award of Excellence for communications.