Tide’s Out: A Training Program for the Next Generation of the Aquaculture Workforce

Shellfish aquaculture is central to rural coastal communities, but many companies have struggled in recent years to recruit and retain a steady workforce to sustain the industry. 

In response, Washington Sea Grant created Tide’s Out, a FREE two-part training program for the next generation of the aquaculture industry workforce. 

The Manager Leadership Summit aims to equip employers with tools for recruiting and retaining a next-generation aquaculture workforce.

The Crew Training Course is designed to provide the skills for being a successful employee.

Manager Leadership Course

Para Español

The FREE 3-day Manager Leadership Summit in South Bend, WA aims to equip employers with best practices and resources for employee retention, safety and well-being. Participation is open to any current or aspiring shellfish industry owner, manager or supervisor, and participants are encouraged to pick and choose which sessions are most relevant for their own professional development. Resources are available to support English language learners.

Summit Topics and Schedule:

  • Day 1 (February 18, 2025) will focus on Advanced Maritime Safety Training, and is intended for any supervisor, manager or owner.
  • Day 2 (February 19, 2025) will focus on Best Practices for Employee Retention, and is intended for anyone who supervises or manages employees.
  • Day 3 (February 20, 2025) will focus on Employee Well-Being and Youth Engagement, and is intended for managers and owners (i.e., staff with the authority to make company-wide strategic decisions).

Please contact Ashleigh Epps (aepps6@uw.edu, 206-543-3674) with any questions.

Registration will be open from January 10-31, 2025.

Crew Training Course

Para Español

The FREE 4-day Crew Training Course in South Bend, WA is designed to provide the skills for being a successful shellfish farmhand and processor. Participation is open to recent hires and anyone age 16+ looking to learn more about working in the coastal shellfish industry. The full training is available in English and Spanish.

Course topics:

  • Shellfish cultivation and processing
  • Shellfish biology and ecology
  • Maritime safety, first aid, and seamanship
  • Work conditions and career opportunities

Course Schedule:

  • February 8, 2025
  • February 15, 2025
  • February 22, 2025
  • March 1, 2025

Anyone interested in learning more about the shellfish aquaculture industry is welcome to attend. No prior experience necessary!

Please contact Ashleigh Epps (aepps6@uw.edu, 206-543-3674) with any questions.

Registration will be open from January 10-31, 2025.