Seth Muir has joined Salish Sea Expeditions as its new executive director.

Muir came on board earlier this month. He joins Salish from the San Francisco area, where he most recently served as interim executive director and education director for the San Francisco Maritime National Park Association.

“We are thrilled by the caliber of experience and perspective that Seth brings to our programs and our organization,” said Salish Board president Jim Helman. “He has been able to hit the ground running and we look forward to continued success under his leadership.”

Salish Sea Expeditions is a Bainbridge Island-based nonprofit that leads student-led scientific research and adventures on the waters of the Salish Sea.

Muir has more than 12 years experience in experiential and boat-based education, with significant expertise in marine science education.

“I am deeply committed to this mission that promotes innovative thinking, empowers and encourages student leadership and fosters a love of science and the environment,” Muir said.

“I envision our organization at the forefront of a movement to change the educational landscape and empower our youth to become influential stewards, policy makers and scientists,” he said.

In his previous role in California, Muir led maritime and science programs that hosted more than 11,000 students annually on ships in the San Francisco Maritime National Park. He has served as director, curriculum developer, coordinator, guide, educator, and boat-builder at organizations such as Marine Science Institute, Camp Galileo, Rippleffect, Mendocino Woodlands, Get Out and Learn and Absolute Adventures.

Muir earned a bachelor’s degree in geography from the University of Colorado at Boulder and studied hydrology at the School for International Training in Belize.

Muir takes over for board member Matt Eldridge, who served as interim executive director after the departure of Stephen Streufert last November. Streufert left to take a position with NatureBridge in Seattle.