CEO Corner
Updates from Jonathan Williams
Jonathan Williams is the President & CEO of the Pacific Battleship Center, home of the Battleship IOWA, LA Fleet Week, and the National Museum of the Surface Navy. A purpose-driven leader and storyteller, he shares updates and insights from one of the nation’s most innovative nonprofit organizations. His writing explores leadership, community, and culture — connecting lessons from the deck plate to the boardroom while highlighting the people, progress, and purpose that continue to drive the mission forward.
Newest Updates
Marine Engineering Careers: Education, Training, Licenses and Jobs at Sea
Interested in engines, machinery and keeping ships running? Explore shipboard marine engineering careers, the training routes into the engine department, and how experience can lead to licensed engineering positions.
How to Become a Licensed Mariner: Careers at Sea, Training, Credentials and Career Paths
Interested in navigating ships and working at sea? Learn what licensed mariners do, how people enter the profession, what credentials are required, and where a career on the water can lead.
How High School Students Can Prepare for a Maritime Career
Discover what you can do now to build skills and explore maritime careers.
How to Work at Sea: Training, Credentials and Your First Maritime Job
Learn about training, credentials and the first steps toward a career aboard ship.
Maritime Careers Without a Four-Year Degree: Apprenticeships, Skilled Trades and Careers at Sea
Explore skilled trades, apprenticeships and careers at sea.
How to Start a Maritime Career: College, Apprenticeships, Military Service and Entry-Level Paths
Explore the different ways into the maritime industry, including college, apprenticeships, military service, technical training and entry-level opportunities.
What Would It Take to Move Battleship IOWA to the State of Iowa?
Could Battleship IOWA ever reach the state whose name she carries? Explore how bridges, river depth, locks, federal law and billions in potential costs determine how close the historic battleship could actually get to Iowa.
Vicky’s Doghouse Café: Gourmet Hot Dogs, Friday Happy Hour, and Waterfront Views Aboard Battleship IOWA
Discover Vicky’s Doghouse Café aboard Battleship IOWA, where gourmet hot dogs, cold drinks, deck games, music, and a big-screen LED display meet panoramic views of the LA Waterfront. Visit for a casual meal or Friday Happy Hour—no museum ticket required.
Why volunteers are essential to Battleship IOWA
Volunteers are the crew that keeps Battleship IOWA preserved, operating, and connected to the community.
How Battleship IOWA serves veterans beyond remembrance
Battleship IOWA supports veterans through connection, purpose, opportunity, and a community built around continued service.
Limited time only beginning on September 5, 2026!
Kids Board Free
In the all-new Life of a Sailor experience, kids become sailor recruits, building their skills, following the story of a famous sailor, and joining Vicky the Dog on a scavenger hunt through Battleship IOWA.
Kids board free with a paid adult.