About

We are experienced captains with a passion to teach

Discover True North Maritime Academy, your premier destination for maritime education solutions. The Best in the Midwest! Rooted in Milwaukee, Wisconsin, we boast a rich history and stand at the forefront of providing exceptional training for aspiring mariners. Our dedication to excellence, coupled with extensive experience, positions us as the areas leading captain’s license course provider.

 

Our Coast Guard approved instructors are unparalleled, catering to both newcomers and seasoned mariners. At True North Maritime Academy, you’re not just a student; you’re our valued customer, and your career goals are as significant to us as they are to you. As a family-owned and operated institution, we welcome you to join the True North Maritime Academy family. Contact us today, and let us demonstrate how we can navigate you toward your desired maritime destination.

Instructors

All of our instructors are USCG approved

Don Doggett

FOUNDER
& LEAD INSTRUCTOR

Captain Don, with over two decades of maritime expertise, holding a USCG 100-ton Master Near Coastal Captains License, Don not only excels in his worldly sailing endeavors but fervently advocates for sailing education and safety.

At our maritime training school, Captain Don’s multifaceted expertise as a professional mariner and entrepreneur converges, making our classes not only educational but also enjoyable and engaging. Under his guidance, students experience a unique blend of real-world experience and visionary leadership, setting our training programs apart in the maritime education landscape.

Angie Doggett

DIRECTOR, MARKETING, AND BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT

Originally from Cleveland, Ohio, Angie fell in love with Milwaukee and the marine/boating lifestyle. As a sailor, she has competed in a number of sailing regattas plus serves as a US Sailing PRO (Principal Race Officer) for local and regional events. She has a passion for teaching spouses/significant others/guests of boat owners what should happen if they find themselves “suddenly in command”. She enjoys sharing her knowledge and experience sailing with others. She has been trained as a first responder and maintains first aid and CPR certifications.

Mike Bauman

Instructor

Captain Mike has been boating since 1971 and has owned boats ranging from 14’ to 47’. Mike has numerous years of experience piloting 50’+ cruisers and houseboats on the Mississippi River, Great Lakes and the Florida Gulf Coast Inter Coastal Waterway. Mike holds a U.S.C.G. Captain’s license with a 100-ton Master rating, an Assistance Towing endorsement as well as Radio Operators Permit. Mike teaches True North classes in OUPV, Master, Towing along with Marine Navigation & Boat handling. Mike is a member and former Commodore of the Milwaukee Harbor yacht club and is a member of the South Shore Yacht Club where he enjoys operating the mooring field tender.

David Neesen

INSTRUCTOR

Captain David Neesen is originally from Nebraska and grew up sailing small boats in northern Minnesota. After moving to Wisconsin and sailing on inland waters, David took ASA 101 with Sea Safaris and quickly fell in love with sailing the great lakes. After taking ASA 106, David went on to get his USCG Master’s License and become an ASA sailing Instructor. Milwaukee is home port for David who, when not teaching, is often cruising to other destinations on Lake Michigan. David has a passion for sailing and enjoys teaching others how to safely sail and navigate as well.

Ken Roberts

INSTRUCTOR

Captain Ken Roberts carries a 100 ton USCG Master’s License with Sail, Towing and
Radar endorsements. He has been a certified Coast Guard instructor for more
than 10 years. Ken brings an unique level of knowledge to True North. He has a great deal
of experience with both large and small vessels. During his time in the
Navy he was part of the navigation and operations team on several ships.
He has made several round trips of the Atlantic and a trip across the
Pacific. Ken has provided specialty training to NY State Canals work boat and tug
operators, US Navy 11 meter RHIB crews. He has also provided licensing
courses for six Coast Guard Stations.

Make money on the water doing what you love