The Port of Oakland in Jack London Square
The Anchor Program (TAP) is a black-founded, black-led organization providing free Merchant Mariner training for low income people. TAP offers skilled training for a lucrative, secure union career and world travel. It is the type of opportunity that can lead to personal and economic stability. https://www.theanchorprogram.org/
A Path to Success
We provide the training and support you need to start a new career as a Merchant Seaman
Our mission is to empower individuals with the knowledge and tools necessary to succeed in the maritime industry and create pathways to long-term financial stability.
Careers with growth potential and a substantial union salary, seem impossible for teens and adults in low income, marginalized communities.
The maritime industry has starting salaries of $40K-50K+ a year, union membership, world travel and fringe benefits. Skill and training-based advancement opportunities can bring salaries over $100,000 within 3+ years.
Damon Hastings welcomes CSU Maritime and Napa Valley Community College
Program Director Evan Hastings, is the founder’s brother, a boatswain and licensed instructor with 30 years maritime experience, the last 27 years with Sealiff Military Supply Command
The Anchor Program Trainees successfully complete STCW Training Location: Cal State University Maritime, Vallejo, CA Fall 2022.
The Lightship RELIEF was transferred to The Anchor Program in 2012. The vessel is a maritime museum, floating classroom and skills-based training facility. The Lightship RELIEF is also a U.S. National Historic Landmark and California Historic Landmark.