Skagit Valley College is launching a nine-week marine surveying course this winter in Anacortes. Designed for those with prior industry experience, the program aims to prepare participants for independent careers in the maritime field. Its robust curriculum reflects the school’s commitment to regional workforce development.

Maritime union leaders in British Columbia are raising concerns over alleged misuse of Ottawa’s temporary foreign workers program by shipping employers. The unions claim that this practice is leading to wage depreciation for Canadian workers and causing safety issues within the industry.