A Message from the Executive Director

That’s a wrap! This Friday, we conclude our 2025 Summer Youth Program after training an incredible 242 young boaters between the ages of 11 and 17. We’re proud to have helped each of them build confidence on the water while developing the knowledge and skills to stay safe and responsible.

This year’s program featured new partnerships and expanded learning opportunities—including guest educators from the Hobe Sound Nature Center, who brought coastal conservation to life through hands-on instruction, making each class engaging. Our Voyager class even took it a step further, learning First Aid and CPR, preparing them not just to boat—but to respond when it counts.

A Message From The Director of Development

As we close out another exciting month at the Chapman School of Seamanship, I want to personally thank everyone who has contributed to our mission. Your generosity empowers students, advances maritime safety, and strengthens our marine workforce.

There’s never been a better time to support Florida’s maritime school. Whether you're passionate about safer waterways or expanding access to hands-on maritime education, your support charts the course and the future of our marine industry.

Chapman Staff Profile: Brandon Hemberger

Director of Marketing & Communications

This month, we’re excited to feature Brandon Hemberger, Director of Marketing at the Chapman School of Seamanship. Since joining the team in November 2022, Brandon has elevated Chapman’s brand with strategic outreach, a refreshed visual identity, and a growing digital footprint that captures the energy and excellence of life at Chapman.

Brandon has played a key role in expanding the school’s visibility through creative content, digital strategy, and video production.

From drone footage of on-the-water training to behind-the-scenes highlights of our youth, recreational, and career programs, his work continues to connect students, families, and industry partners to all that Chapman has to offer.

Brandon holds a B.A. in Multimedia Management from Saint Leo University, where he also played collegiate baseball from 2012–2016. He later earned his M.S. in Digital Media Management from Arkansas State University in 2021. Before joining Chapman, he spent five years with a not-for-profit credit union in the Tampa Bay area, refining his skills in community engagement and digital marketing.

Outside of work, Brandon enjoys watching sports, golfing, fishing, and spending quality time with his wife and their two dogs.

Tech Tips from Yamaha Master Technician Shane Bowlin

Keeping Your Bilge Pump in Ship-Shape

Your bilge pump is one of the most critical safety systems on board, do not wait for an emergency to find out it’s not working. Regular maintenance should include:

• Testing both manual and automatic operation
• Cleaning the strainer
• Inspecting the discharge hose for kinks or blockages
• Checking wiring for corrosion or loose connections

The number one cause of bilge pump failure is a stuck or fouled float switch, so make sure it’s clean and moves freely.

Always ensure your bilge pump is hardwired directly to the battery so it can operate even when the main switch is off. Keep your bilge free of rags and debris to prevent clogs and keep water moving when it matters most. For added security, carry a hand pump in case of electrical failure. A little attention now can save your vessel in a crisis.

Partnership Spotlight: Loggerhead Marinelife Center

We’re proud to highlight our growing partnership with Loggerhead Marinelife Center, a world-renowned nonprofit ocean conservation organization based in Juno Beach. Known for its leadership in sea turtle rehabilitation, marine science education, and ocean conservation, Loggerhead brings a dynamic and mission-driven approach to protecting Florida’s coastal ecosystems.

This summer, several Chapman staff members had the opportunity to visit the center, explore behind-the-scenes research efforts, and strengthen connections between our institutions. Our shared commitment to marine education and environmental stewardship opens the door to future collaborations that will benefit students, wildlife, and our waters alike.

Protecting Sea Turtles: Boaters Can Make A Difference

Sea turtle nesting season runs from March 1 through October 31, and thousands of endangered sea turtles are just offshore—mating, nesting, or waiting to come ashore. Boaters play a critical role in protecting them.

Here’s what you can do:

1. Know the Sea Turtle Protection Zone (STPZ)

This voluntary program encourages turtle-safe boating within 1 mile of shore during nesting season. This zone is from Jupiter Inlet to Boca Raton. Reducing speed and increasing awareness can prevent deadly collisions.



2. Three Ways to Help Prevent Boat Strikes:

• Go slow for those below – reduce speed when boating near shore.
• Wear polarized sunglasses – they help you spot sea turtles more easily.
• Designate a turtle spotter – assign someone to scan the water ahead.

3. If You See an Injured Sea Turtle:

Call or text, the FWC Sea Turtle Stranding Hotline at 1-888-404-3922 or #FWC from a mobile phone. You’ll receive guidance on what to do and how to help safely.

By staying alert and following these guidelines, boaters can help protect one of Florida’s most iconic and vulnerable marine species.

Watch this informative video to learn more about STPZ.

Program Highlight: Advanced Powerboating

Chapman’s Advanced Power Boating Course is giving experienced boaters and aspiring professionals a deeper level of confidence at the helm. This hands-on course focuses on precision handling, navigation, close-quarters maneuvering, and emergency procedures in real-world conditions.

Students also complete the nationally recognized Safe Boating Modules 1-4 from the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC). These modules reinforce core safety concepts, including life jacket wear, navigation rules, situational awareness, and emergency response - ensuring every graduate leaves with a foundation rooted in national best practices.

Conducted on well-equipped training vessels, students receive individualized instruction in docking, MOB drills, weather judgment, and radar operations—all designed to sharpen their skills and safety awareness.

Whether you're preparing for a career on the water or simply want to handle your vessel like a pro, this course delivers the advanced instruction you won’t find anywhere else in the region.

Community Impact: Chapman Cleans Up Manatee Pocket

We were proud to once again sponsor and participate in the 18th Annual Treasure Coast Waterway Cleanup. Chapman School deployed four boats and a dedicated crew of staff and volunteers to help clean up Manatee Pocket - a vital and heavily trafficked local waterway.

Our team removed 60 pounds of debris, including plastics, ropes, bottles, and other trash harmful to our marine ecosystems. This initiative reflects our ongoing commitment to conservation and community action—and we thank everyone who rolled up their sleeves to make a difference.

Stay Connected With Chapman!