Young Fishermen’s Initiative: Training the Next Generation of Commercial Fishermen | September 2026

This webinar was recorded on September 24, 2026 at 1 P.M. EDT. This session features Shelby White, Marine Business Specialist with the Virginia Institute of Marine Science. The webinar discusses the Virginia Young Fishermen’s Initiative, an innovative program focused on supporting the next generation of commercial fishermen and strengthening the future of the seafood industry. This webinar will explore workforce challenges facing coastal fishing communities, including an aging fishing population, barriers to new entry, and the cultural and economic importance of sustaining local fisheries. Drawing from research with Virginia watermen and lessons learned through program development, White will share how the initiative combines mentorship, professional development, and practical business training to help new fishermen build successful careers. Participants will learn about the program’s collaborative approach, workshop topics such as financial literacy, safety training, marketing, public communication, and regulatory engagement, as well as efforts to expand opportunities for aspiring fishermen across Virginia’s coastal communities. This session is valuable for commercial fishermen, seafood industry stakeholders, Extension professionals, workforce development practitioners, occupational safety professionals, and anyone interested in supporting resilient coastal communities and the future of domestic seafood production.