HYANNIS, MA- The district hosted the first Fishermen Training Program facilitated by the Brazilian Resources Center, formerly the Health Ministry Inc. This collaboration between the Cape Cod Commercial Fishermen’s Alliance (CCCFA) and TDI MassDevelopment is an important step to building a more resilient year-round economy. Experienced fishermen, certified marine safety trainers from Fathom Resources, and local fisheries experts teamed up to conduct an introductory-level course led by Fishermen’s Alliance staff. The curriculum includes an overview of local fisheries, crew responsibilities and expectations, certification in at-sea safety/survival, basic knot tying, different gear types, Coast Guard rules and regulations, and more. The group had 14 students in attendance. The intention was to prepare them for sea/vessel emergencies and job opportunities. Cape and Islands District Attorney Rob Galibois, and Barnstable Fire Department's CAPT/ EMT-P, Lieutenant Michael Dalmau, were also at the site. The students learned skills of survival including donning survival suits in open water. All received their certificates and some job offers, including work in the fishing industry onshore, have already been received. This was indeed the beginning of brightening the Blue Economy into Barnstable community.