Today Dakota Creek Industries had the privilege of welcoming 36 students from Northwest Career & Technical Academy (NCTA) for a tour of our shipyard and a closer look at the opportunities that exist within the skilled trades.

These students walked through active production shops, stood beneath vessels larger than most buildings, and saw firsthand what American craftsmanship, teamwork, and industry look like in action. What we hope they left with is this: the trades are not just jobs — they are careers. Careers that can support families, build communities, and create a lifetime of purpose and opportunity.

At Dakota Creek Industries, we do not expect young people to arrive already knowing everything. We simply ask for a strong work ethic, reliability, curiosity, and the willingness to learn. If someone is willing to show up, work hard, and commit to growth, we will teach them the skills they need to succeed. That is what an apprenticeship is all about.
The marine trades offer something increasingly rare in today’s world — the opportunity to create tangible things with your own hands, solve real problems, and be part of building vessels that work across the globe. There is dignity in that work, and there is an incredible future waiting for the next generation of tradespeople.

A sincere thank you to Brent Moore, a NCTA CorePlus Maritime Instructor, for continuing to bring students to DCI year after year and for helping connect young people with meaningful career pathways in the trades. Partnerships like this truly matter.

If you or someone you know would like more information about Dakota Creek Industries more information can be found here: dakotacreek.com/apprentice-program/

#NCTAPartner #WorkforceDevelopment #Anacortes #SkilledTrades #DakotaCreekIndustries #MarineTrades #Maritime ... See MoreSee Less

Dakota Creek Industries is proud to celebrate National Apprenticeship Week, April 26–May 2, 2026!

At DCI, apprenticeship is one of the most important ways we invest in the future of our workforce, the marine trades, and our community. Through our Washington State–approved apprenticeship program, apprentices in Marine Electrical, Welding, Machinery, and Shipfitting gain hands-on experience, classroom instruction, and mentorship—all while earning a living wage.

This week, we’re proud to spotlight Corey Johnson, a 2nd-year Marine Electrician Apprentice, who is doing an outstanding job balancing hands-on training with classroom learning. Corey reflects the dedication, growth, and real-world experience our apprentices gain every day as they build valuable skills for long-term careers in the maritime industry. We’re proud to have him on our team and excited to watch his future continue to unfold.

At Dakota Creek, we believe you do not need prior trade experience to get started—just the willingness to learn, work hard, and take pride in what you do. We are grateful for our apprentices and for the mentors who help guide, teach, and support them every step of the way. Their commitment helps ensure the next generation of craftsmanship continues to thrive at DCI.

Earn While You Learn. Build a Career That Lasts.

Learn more about the DCI Apprentice Program. Applications are open now through May 1. dakotacreek.com/apprentice-program/

#DakotaCreekIndustries #NationalApprenticeshipWeek #Apprenticeship #MarineElectrician #MarineTrades #SkagitValleyCollege #EarnWhileYouLearn #WorkforceDevelopment #Shipbuilding #MaritimeCareers #WashingtonStateApprenticeship #ApprenticeSpotlight #SkagitCounty #Anacortes #TradesCareers #EDASC ... See MoreSee Less

What a great turnout at the WorkSource Marine Job Fair in Bellingham! 🙌

Thank you to everyone who stopped by our booth, asked questions, and showed interest in building a future in the marine industry. We truly enjoyed connecting with you and sharing what we do on the waterfront.

⚓ Ready to start a hands-on career and learn a skilled trade?
Our Apprenticeship Application is OPEN now!
This is your chance to earn while you learn and build a long-term career doing meaningful work.
Apply today: dakotacreek.com/apprentice-program/

We’re excited to see the next generation of marine professionals join the team! ... See MoreSee Less