November 21, 2025 — Jerry Dzugan, founder of the Alaska Marine Safety Education Association (AMSEA), opened the Pacific Marine Expo’s conference sessions by dispelling the notion that 80 percent of commercial fishing fatalities are the result of what we refer to as the “human factor.”
“Human factors are really responsible for 100 percent of all incidents,” said Dzugan.
Whether it’s design, building, or operation, it’s hard to get away from the effect people have on fishery operations and safety.
But the human factor is also what keeps the industry thriving, and that’s never been more apparent as the industry continues down the road of managing the graying of the fleet.
Workforce development is a critical component across trades in general. However, the unique challenges in maritime trades continue to be introducing new candidates to the full spectrum of on-the-water jobs.