SMA Community Day Makes a Splash with Fun Activities and Program Showcases
The Seattle Maritime Academy (SMA) welcomed hundreds of community members to its Ballard campus for a fun-filled Community Day on Saturday, May 31, featuring free boat cruises, hands-on simulator experiences, and a collaborative showcase of various Seattle Colleges trades programs. The event successfully brought the excitement of maritime careers and other skilled trades to families and prospective students from across the region.
The family-friendly atmosphere was buzzing with activity. Attendees were treated to free Argosy boat cruises on the canal, had the chance to row a boat, and got to test-drive the academy's state-of-the-art ship simulator, getting a real feel for what it's like to be at the helm of a vessel. The event provided a perfect opportunity to showcase SMA’s two U.S. Coast Guard-Approved certificate programs that prepare students for careers in commercial transportation, passenger vessels, and the wider workboat industry.
A key highlight of the day was the strong collaborative presence from across the district. In addition to the maritime focus, representatives from a variety of other Seattle Colleges trades programs were on hand, tabling and sharing information about the diverse training opportunities available to students. This unified approach demonstrated a "one-college" spirit, providing visitors with a holistic view of the many career pathways Seattle Colleges offers.
The successful event not only provided a fantastic day for the community but also effectively demonstrated the power of cross-departmental and cross-college collaboration in student outreach. By showcasing the breadth of our programs in an engaging, hands-on environment, the SMA Community Day served as an excellent gateway for community members to explore all that Seattle Colleges has to offer.