b'Its really shaped myfor three or four years, while at some operations the new thinking around it, as captains have stayed on for much longer. Captain positions may not frequently open at an opera-the more we can promotetion which could lead to a new captain leaving for another company or sector in the maritime industry. At times, this this to future mariners has actually benefited PVA members. Brodie noted that theyve had several captains who received PVF grants use and grow more people, the experience as a steppingstone and have gone on to join fellow PVA member companies. the better. Forbothaspiringcaptainandvesseloperator,thePVF DAVE WHANGER Grant Program has been an excellent resource. Its assisted CHARLESTON TOURS & EVENTS,people who may not have otherwise done so to achieve their CHARLESTON, S.C.captains license and build a long-term career in the passen-ger vessel industry. Operators have been able to leverage the grants to develop captains from within their organizations. Whanger described a handshake agreement they have withIts really shaped my thinking around it, Whanger said, awardees that theyll stay on for at least a year after receiv- as the more we can promote this to future mariners and ing their license. Lawrence has had many captains stay ongrow more people, the better.35 OCTOBER 2025'