The First Captain! Luis Melendez

Luis Melendez was the first captain out of New York Harbor School, graduating in 2007. Luis Melendez has an extensive background in the maritime industry, ranging from his work around the New York Harbor school community to his current career as a dockmaster. His work surrounding the New York Harbor School includes building the New York Harbor Schools foundation, working with the Billion Oyster Project, working as a MAST center lab technician, and being Assistant Waterfront director. His current career as Dockmaster at Diversion City Agency Parks still includes aspects from the Billion Oyster Project and New York Harbor School; however, it focuses on marina operations. The New York City Department of Parks and Recreation aims to implement physical improvements to community resources, grow and maintain safe access to nature, and keep the marina safe. However, as a dockmaster, his primary responsibilities include operating and maintaining marinas on a citywide scale, dealing with the disposal of marine debris and surrender vessels, overseeing the collection of fees, and advising in the case of emergencies, unsafe weather conditions, or safety measures in marinas, which Luis Melendez has been doing for nearly five years. Depending on the season, these responsibilities and the work needed may vary, with winter generally being the busiest.

Luis Melendez gained connections, a boating background, and fundamental skills throughout his time at Harbor School without CTEs. However, he feels CTEs add an extra aspect of focus and help him gain a more specific skill set. When asked what advice he would give to someone joining the maritime community, he said, “Learn more about different aspects of the community.” the marine industry is vast, and learning the different career paths can aid in deciding what path to follow. I, Carmen, feel his comment on learning about the other aspects of the marine industry is critical when working on boats; I would also like to do something about education and working with students, similar to Luis Melendez. Understanding and being aware that there are so many options in the maritime community can help new people to gain interest. 

Luis Melendez sees his career and accomplishments as something he enjoys doing and being a part of rather than ranking them from most significant to least. He values all the experiences and connections he gained throughout his career and enjoys what he is doing, something he feels everyone should share about their career. Even when working with kids, he thought it was gratifying watching them learn and gain interest in the marine community. I, Bartol, resonated with what Lewis said about his experiences and how he values them. I think appreciating your experiences and the connections you’ve made is an excellent perspective on your career. I aspire to have a similar view.

Luis Melendez has had such a broad career and reached so many maritime community members, from helping grow the harbor school into what it is today to educating children on the maritime industry and ensuring that they have a proper education. Educating the youth on the environment and marine industry, especially minorities, is significant diversity. It shows it is for everyone and provides them with something they can enjoy and find a community. Luis currently works to keep our marinas safe for the community and people who work there.

Carmen F. & Bartol C. Vessel Ops Sophmores 2024