Over the past quarter, Vineyard Offshore has continued building strong connections across Northern California. From supporting local fishermen to engaging with regional leadership programs, we remain committed to collaboration and community. In this newsletter, you’ll find a few highlights from the past few months.
Community News
Supporting Local Maritime Careers
We're excited to share that two captains who completed the Maritime Institute certification course we sponsored last summer have been hired by Zerlang & Zerlang. This course, typically not offered locally, allowed Humboldt residents to gain valuable certifications without traveling far. These new roles not only promote maritime safety but also contribute to the region’s harbor operations.
Vineyard Offshore has welcomed the Humboldt Fisheries Marketing Association (HFMA) and the Fisheries Marketing Association (FMA) as Fishery Representatives. These trusted local organizations help ensure strong communication between our project and the fishing communities they represent, supporting collaboration throughout every stage of our work.
Supporting Local Labor and Workforce Development
Developing local training and labor partnerships are a critical piece for our project's success. Vineyard Offshore was a proud sponsor of the Operating Engineers (OE3) Crab Feed on Saturday February 15 that helped to raise over $45k for Two Feathers, College of the Redwoods and Food for People. We were also glad to donate a full day rafting trip and further support local businesses in the region and the best part was we got to enjoy some locally caught crab dungeness with some new friends!
In March, VO proudly supported the kickoff of the 2025 Leadership Redwood Coast Program, a regional fellowship that brings together leaders from Humboldt, Del Norte, and Tribal communities to explore challenges and opportunities across the region. The first session took place at the Humboldt Bay Aquatic Center in Eureka and featured guest speakers, leadership assessments, and cohort introductions.
Fellows, including our own Jaclyn Robinson, connected through group discussions, explored trauma-informed leadership, and ended the day with dinner and conversations at the Humboldt Social Club in Samoa. Over the next five months, they will continue traveling across the region, including visits to Del Norte County, Pelican Bay Prison, and the Tolowa Tribal Nation, to build relationships and gain firsthand insight into local leadership and community needs.
Upcoming Events
POWER CA 2025
Join us in Humboldt County from May 6–8, 2025, for POWER CA. Renewable energy leaders will explore new technologies, sustainability, and investment opportunities. Our own Erik Peckar will be on a panel—don’t miss it!
The Pacific Offshore Wind Summit is returning to Sacramento from May 19–21. Join leaders from government, industry, labor, and communities for crucial discussions on the future of offshore wind in California. Our CEO Alicia Barton, CA Market Lead Rick Umoff, and Tribal liaison Jaclyn Robinson will be on panels—be sure to stop by and say hi!
Join us on June 14th, 2025, for the Arcata Bay Oyster Festival. We’re proud to sponsor this event celebrating local businesses, aquaculture, craft breweries, and community spirit. We look forward to seeing you there!