New Harbor Master at Shilshole Bay Marina

Last night at the Ballard District Council meeting, Tracy McKendry introduced herself as the new Harbor Master for Shilshole Marina. She’s been on the job for six weeks now, and most recently came from Foss Harbor Marina in Tacoma, where she worked as general manager.

The day after McKendry graduated from college, she got on an airplane headed for Alaska, where she worked on tour boats for about 10 years. She then got her 500 Ton Master’s License and 1600 Ton Mate’s License. “I’ve done the inside passage from Seattle to Juneau, a couple hundred times at least,” said McKendry. She also worked as first mate on the Victoria Clipper and then at Fisherman’s Terminal for Seattle Ship Supply. “On a whim I applied for this position, thinking they would hire internally but that it would be good practice, but sure enough they dialed my phone number and asked me if I wanted the job. I’m just really excited. I love this area, and I used to love going down to Shilshole,” McKendry said.

When asked what her specific responsibilities would be, McKendry said it’s a job full of multitasking. “I never dreamed I could get my finger into so many pies at once,” she laughed.  McKendry does everything from marketing to human resources to dock maintenance. She also oversees the marina while trying to come up with ideas to generate more moorage. And, McKendry expects to work closely with the community to keep up with all the environmental regulations. “My desk is full already, and there’s always more buckets coming,” she said.