ABYC Foundation's Educator of the Year Award
The ABYC Foundation's Educator of the Year Award honors an outstanding instructor who is shaping future marine service technicians. Candidates teach marine service technology for recreational boats in a high school, post-secondary school, or industry wide.
Winner receives a West Marine Pro Tool Set
Nominations for 2026 Educator of the Year will open soon.
Sponsored by
Congratulations to the
2025 Educator of the Year!
Matt Mardesich, Skagit Valley College
Matt Mardesich is co-department chair and an instructor in engines and mechanical systems at Skagit Valley College in Anacortes, WA, where the Marine Maintenance Technology program prepares students for careers in the marine trades with a focus on marine mechanics and marine electrical systems. He is an ABYC-certified technician in marine engines and fuel systems.
Altynay Trofimchuk, a student in the Marine Maintenance Technology program at Skagit Valley College, said, “He is an incredibly knowledgeable and passionate teacher who makes every class engaging and practical. 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.”
