With more than 15,000 students coming through its doors since first opening its doors in 1992, Chesapeake Marine Training Institute at Hayes is celebrating its 20th anniversary this month.

"We know that, through much of our training, we are saving lives and property at sea," said president Guy Sorensen. "That in itself carries a lot of responsibility, and is extremely rewarding."

Sorensen founded Chesapeake Marine Training Institute (CMTI) with a mission to deliver competitive, high quality products and superior marine-related instruction and services to professional mariners.

Sorensen enlisted in the U.S. Coast Guard after high school. He came up through the ranks, moving to Chief Petty Officer, Chief Warrant Officer, and received a direct commission to Lieutenant as a Surface Operations Specialist. He retired as a Lieutenant Commander following 30 years of service.

While stationed in Yorktown, Sorensen said he saw the need for dedicated, professional marine training. "It se...