The School of Marine and Environmental Affairs is pleased to announce Rear Admiral Steve Metruck, U.S. Coast Guard (retired), and Executive Director of the Port of Seattle, has joined us as Professor of Practice in addition to his role as Executive Director of the Port of Seattle.

With a distinguished over forty-year career spanning maritime leadership and public service, Metruck brings extensive experience as both a U.S. Coast Guard Officer and in his current role at the Port of Seattle, Washington’s largest port, since 2018. At the port, he works to balance the demanding role of maritime commerce with the region’s economic health, environmental stewardship, and community needs. All with a focus on creating a ‘Port for the Future’ that supports the region with economic and job opportunities.

Metruck increases our faculty’s strength to support and mentor students with an interest in the maritime industry, marine transportation, and a career in the public sector. He will team-teach, mentor thesis projects, and support capstones. Already in Winter 2026, he is co-organizing the SMEA Speaker Series with Prof. David Fluharty. Through all these efforts, he will provide unique insights into the intersections of maritime and coastal policies, blue economy, workforce development, environmental stewardship, and community engagement.

We are excited to welcome Executive Director Metruck to SMEA and look forward to the knowledge, collaboration, and mentorship he will bring to UW students and the community.