Technology is rapidly changing the commercial seafood industry, with automated systems, robotics, and advanced processing equipment now integral to daily operations. These developments have led to improvements in efficiency, quality, safety, and sustainability within the sector.
As technology evolves, so does the need for a workforce capable of operating and maintaining these sophisticated systems. Many skilled trades employees are interested in advancing their expertise but often lack access to specialized training tailored to new industry requirements.
Trident Seafoods has responded by forming a partnership with Clover Park Technical College in Tacoma, Washington. Through this collaboration, Trident’s skilled trades employees can enroll in Clover Park’s Mechatronics program—a 12-week intensive course focused on automation technologies relevant to the seafood industry. The curriculum includes instruction on fluid power systems, robotics, computer programming, and other essential topics.
Michael Mavor, an instructor for the Mechatronics program at Clover Park Technical College, said: “The relationship with Trident Seafoods is unique right now. But I think it’s fundamentally how colleges and industry partners should be working together. It allows us to make sure everything we teach directly supports the industry.”
Monty Myrtle, Lead Journeyman Electrician at Trident Seafoods who participated in the program, highlighted its impact: “Continued education, especially as an electrician, is super important. Thanks to Trident investing in me, I’ve got a whole new toolbox. It’s knowledge I never would’ve gained otherwise.” Myrtle also noted that such training is particularly valuable in remote areas like Alaska where equipment repair skills can prevent operational disruptions: “One thing these classes help with is fixing things, not just replacing them. Working in remote Alaska, that makes a big difference.”
Unlike traditional classroom settings, Clover Park tailors its curriculum using real-life scenarios drawn from seafood operations at companies like Trident Seafoods. Myrtle added: “The school does a great job recreating real-life scenarios. What we learn there translates directly to what we do for Trident.”
Claire Korschinowski, Dean of Instruction for Advanced Manufacturing at Clover Park Technical College explained the program’s intent: “We want all our students to walk away with the ability to do and perform from day one on the job,” she said. “We’re putting people into roles that will sustain themselves and our communities.”
Industry-aligned programs like this not only benefit participating companies but also contribute more broadly by strengthening local economies—especially those tied closely to coastal communities and rural regions such as Alaska—and helping address national shortages of skilled trades workers.
Investing in targeted upskilling helps reduce employee turnover rates and enhances workplace safety while ensuring readiness for future demands within modern seafood production environments.
More information about career opportunities or apprenticeships at Trident Seafoods can be found on their Careers website.