First Mate Academy

History

Finding myself terribly burned out of my first career, on the verge of depression and wondering how the hell I would (living in Nashville, TN) transition to the marine industry of which I so desperately wanted. While spending the pandemic in the Panhandle of FL and pathetically mopping around feeling sorry for myself, I was half present while doing my bi-annual deodorant shelf-clearing purchase at Publix (SpeedStick Original Scent, the ONLY deodorant I've ever used). As I aimlessly found the unmistakable green top of Original Scent, there it was! Could it be? The sign I needed? Right there next to the green top Original Scent was the beautiful blue topped SpeedStick OCEAN SURF. This WAS it! The sign I needed! Was I really going to do it?! Switch?! HELL YES!!! Before I knew it, I found myself reaching far into the row until ALL Ocean Surf sticks were precariously coordinated in my arms. Immediately, I snapped out of my pitty party and pseudo depression. I knew my career change was imminent and there was no turning back!

Years of beach-going, boating, fishing and sharing knowledge with others has greatly shaped the lifestyle of our family. These experiences, among others, created the foundation of FIRST MATE ACADEMY - a progressive learning program steeped in family values where youth development and education are of utmost importance. 

~Captain Andy Benedict