500 Sails, which will train individuals through its Beach Canoe Pilot Project, is hosting an application orientation on Wednesday, Aug. 23, at 5 p.m. at the Cultural Maritime Training Center in Lower Base.
According to Kuen Hee Han, 500 Sails managing director, the application orientation will be focused on how to obtain a merchant mariner credential or MMC. 500 Sails eventually envisions supporting canoe pilots who hold MMCs, lifeguard certifications, and other certifications to enter the tourism industry and beyond.
“One of 500 Sails’ missions is to train and create jobs in the maritime industry,” Han said. “This pilot project will hopefully be able to generate revenue and be able to continue as an expanding 500 Sails program.”
Han said even someone with zero experience sailing can come to the orientation “if they are interested in exploring a career on the sea.”
According to a media release, participants in the Beach Canoe Pilot Project can earn from $7.50 to $24 per hour.
The 500 Sails Cultural Maritime Training Center is located on Santa Remedios Drive, past the CUC power plant. It is adjacent to the CNMI Department of Lands and Natural Resources.
Contact (670) 323-7245 for inquiries.
500 Sails aims to revive, promote, and preserve the maritime cultural traditions of the Marianas through community engagement in canoe culture and activities.
