July’s My Teenage Me is David Murray, Senior Editor at Bound Media – Waterways Journal.

David’s career path proves that there are many ways to build a meaningful career in the maritime industry. After graduating high school, he worked as a deckhand and later as an able-bodied seaman, gaining firsthand experience on the water. Along the way, he pursued higher education, earning a B.S. in Speech Pathology, an M.A. in English Literature, and a Ph.D. in English Literature.

By combining his maritime experience with his passion for writing and education, David went on to serve as a communications coordinator, adjunct professor, managing editor, staff writer, and contributing writer before becoming Senior Editor at The Waterways Journal. His journey demonstrates how skills developed on the water can lead to rewarding opportunities in communications, publishing, and leadership.

Thank you for sharing your story with us, David, and for inspiring the next generation to discover the wide variety of careers connected to America’s waterways.

Does David’s journey inspire you? Every career path is different, and the maritime industry offers opportunities both on and off the water. Whether you’re interested in working aboard a vessel, writing about the industry, teaching, or leading organizations, there’s a place for your talents. Ready to explore a career in maritime? Visit our online Career Hub today!

June’s My Teenage Me is John Hardisty, Port Mate at Hines Furlong Line.

John’s career journey shows how experience and dedication can open doors throughout the maritime industry. After graduating high school, he started as a Lead Deckhand with Campbell Transportation, advanced to Stern Deckhand, then spent nine years as a Mate before taking on his current role as Port Mate with Hines Furlong Line.

John’s story highlights that there’s no single path to success in maritime. Every role along the way builds valuable skills, leadership, and experience that can lead to new opportunities both on and off the water.

Thank you for sharing your journey with us, John, and for inspiring the next generation to explore the many career paths available in the maritime.

Does John’s journey inspire you? While every career path is unique, growth comes from gaining experience, staying committed, and being open to new opportunities. Ready to explore a career in maritime? Visit our online Career Hub today!

May’s My Teenage Me is Brandon Phillips, Compliance & HR Manager at Riverview Companies.

Brandon’s career path is a great example of how the maritime industry offers opportunities for growth both on the water and ashore. Starting as a deckhand after graduating high school, he worked his way through roles including watchman, mate, steersman, pilot, and captain before transitioning into leadership positions with ARTCo and ultimately Riverview Companies.

Reflecting on his journey, Brandon’s story highlights the value of hard work, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new opportunities throughout a maritime career. His progression from vessel operations to human resources and compliance demonstrates the many pathways available within the industry.

Thank you for sharing your journey with us, Brandon, and for showing the next generation that a maritime career can take you further than you ever imagined!

Does Brandon’s journey inspire you? While no one’s story is the same, there’s something to be said about curiosity and being willing to try something new. Ready to explore opportunities in maritime? Visit our online career hub today!