Born and raised in the charming coastal town of Ketchikan, Cassidy Patton’s journey is deeply rooted in her Alaska Native heritage as a member of the Tongass Tribe. Guided by the wisdom of her grandmother, a respected matriarch, she learned the values of cultural pride and sustainable living. Each year, Cassidy sets out to master a new traditional subsistence technique, such as fishing for salmon, hunting deer, crafting jam from berries and spruce tips, and making medicinal salves from local plants like Devil’s Club. Her foraging journey is not just about sustenance but about honoring her roots and maintaining a profound connection to the land.
Growing up surrounded by the pristine waters of Southeast Alaska, Cassidy dreamed of a career at sea. Initially envisioning a career as a fisherwoman, she faced challenges navigating a traditionally male-dominated field. A pivotal conversation during her junior year of high school introduced her to the concept of a maritime academy—a revelation that changed the trajectory of her life.
She attended the California State University Maritime Academy, where she excelled in a rigorous four-year program, earning a Bachelor of Science degree and a Third Mate "unlimited" license, qualifying her to serve as a navigating officer on any type or size of ship. After graduating in 2017, she returned to her hometown to begin her maritime career with the Alaska Marine Highway. Starting on a fishing tender and eventually moving on to ferry navigation, Cassidy brought her childhood dream full circle.
Today, she holds the position of Port Captain with the Alaska Marine Highway, overseeing fleet captains and ensuring smooth ferry operations. At just 29 years old, Cassidy is the youngest supervisor in the company’s history, modernizing the fleet with innovative ideas while staying true to its mission of connecting communities across Alaska.
Her journey is extraordinary, not only because women make up just 2% of the global maritime industry but also because of the trail she’s blazing for others. Cassidy attributes her success to qualities such as kindness, effective communication, resilience, and teamwork.
"It’s not just about knowing how to dock a ship or navigate—it’s about being a team player and leaving ego at the door." - Cassidy Patton, MBA student
While Cassidy’s maritime career is thriving, her commitment to her community runs even deeper. Inspired to make a broader impact, she’s now pursuing her MBA at UAF, sharpening her business skills to help propel her industry and state forward. These principles guide her as she continues to grow professionally and aspires to make a meaningful impact on the maritime field, paving the way for more women to succeed in this male-dominated industry.
From the shores of Ketchikan to the decks of Alaska’s ferries, Cassidy’s story is a testament to breaking barriers with grace, resilience, and authenticity. She’s proof that when passion meets purpose, the possibilities are limitless.
Credits:
By Adeline Berry