ANACORTES, Wash. — Skagit Valley College is proud to announce that Matthew Mardesich,
Marine Maintenance Technology (MMT) co-department chair and instructor, has been named
the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) Foundation’s 2025 Educator of the Year.
The annual award honors outstanding marine service technology instructors teaching at the high school, post-secondary, or industry level who are making a significant impact on the next generation of marine technicians.
ABYC announced the honor during its Educator Forum on January 28, 2026, a national event that brings together educators and industry leaders to strengthen marine technical education and workforce pathways.
Mardesich teaches engines and mechanical systems in SVC’s MMT program, an ABYC-accredited Marine Trades Accreditation Program (MTAP). The program prepares students for careers in the marine trades, with training in marine mechanics, diesel engines, drivetrains, and marine electrical systems. Mardesich is also an ABYC-certified technician in marine engines and fuel systems.
“Matthew Mardesich exemplifies the expertise, dedication, and passion that define Skagit Valley College’s commitment to workforce education,” said Darren Greeno, SVC vice president of academic affairs. “His ability to connect students with hands-on learning and real-world industry standards is transforming lives and strengthening the marine trades across our region. We are incredibly proud to see his work recognized at the national level.”
Students describe Mardesich as a supportive and engaging instructor whose teaching builds both confidence and technical skill.
“He is an incredibly knowledgeable and passionate teacher who makes every class engaging and practical,” said Altynay Trofimchuk, a student in SVC’s MMT program. “When I first came to class, I had very limited knowledge. Thanks to Matt’s guidance, I now feel confident working on diesel engines, drivetrains, and using power tools safely and effectively. I also successfully passed the Marine Engines and Fuel Systems exam, a milestone I couldn’t have reached without his support and teaching.”
ABYC Foundation accreditation director Sarah Devlin noted that recognition for educators is often rare, and the award reflects the vital role instructors play in supporting both students and the marine industry.
During the forum, Mardesich accepted the award and credited his colleagues and students for making the work meaningful.
“I got the best job in the world,” Mardesich said. “We do this because it’s fun and we’ve got a lot of passion for it.”
SVC congratulates Mardesich on this outstanding national recognition and celebrates the continued excellence of its MMT program.
The MMT program, based at the college’s Marine Technology Center in Anacortes, provides students with hands-on training in marine engines, electrical systems, propulsion, and vessel maintenance. SVC prepares graduates for high-demand careers in the marine industry throughout the Puget Sound region and beyond.
The program emphasizes real-world technical experience, industry certifications, and strong connections with regional employers—helping students gain the skills needed to enter the workforce quickly and confidently.
To learn more about the MMT program, including enrollment and career opportunities, visit our website.
To learn more about the ABYC Foundation’s Educator of the Year award, visit teachboats.org.
About the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC)
Since 1954, the nonprofit American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) has developed safety standards for boat design, construction, equipage, repair and maintenance. The essential global source of marine industry technical information, ABYC's product safety standards, credentialing, education, training, and other tools help members make boating safer.
The ABYC Foundation supports the mission of the American Boat & Yacht Council, with a focus on workforce development and providing resources that create educational and lifelong career opportunities to both current and aspiring marine service technicians. To get involved, visit www.teachboats.org.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu