Silverback Marine, Tacoma, Wash., has launched Grit City Workboats, an animated series designed to introduce children to workboats, maritime careers and life along the working waterfront.
The aluminum boatbuilder said the series draws from vessels, people and operations found throughout the maritime industry. It follows a group of animated workboat characters as they solve problems, assist their community and navigate the waters of the Pacific Northwest.
The fictional community of Grit City is based on Tacoma, Wash., Commencement Bay, and the working waterways of Puget Sound. Characters include tugboats, landing craft, patrol boats, tenders and skiffs, with each vessel assigned a different personality and role.
“Grit City Workboats began with a simple idea: introduce children to the incredible boats, people and opportunities that make the maritime world possible,” the company said. “The response has grown faster than we anticipated. Families are connecting with the characters, while professionals throughout the marine industry recognize the importance of inspiring the next generation.”
Episodes will address maritime careers and skilled trades, search-and-rescue operations, shipbuilding, navigation, marine technology, environmental stewardship, teamwork and community service.
Silverback said the project could also provide maritime companies and organizations with a platform to share industry stories with the public. Future episodes may incorporate actual workboat operations, marine equipment, emerging technology and educational partnerships.
“There is a major need for skilled people throughout the marine industry, but many children grow up without ever being introduced to the opportunities available on the working waterfront,” Silverback said. “Our goal is to create something children genuinely enjoy while showing them that the maritime world is full of adventure, purpose and rewarding careers.”
New episodes, character profiles and behind-the-scenes material will be released through the Grit City Workboats website, YouTube channel and social media.
