The Need: The Massachusetts boating industry has a $5 billion annual economic impact, supporting around 17,600 jobs in marine and maritime roles, both ashore and landside. Ninety-five percent of boats sold in the United States are made in the United States, making marine manufacturing a supportive and productive part of the national economy.

Partner: Massachusetts Marine Trades Association

Program: Marine Technician Program

Output: 36 students per year

The Benefit: “This program is the only one of its kind in the Greater Boston area. For me, it was a great introduction to practical skills like outboard maintenance and troubleshooting, marine electrical wiring, marine plumbing and diesel engines. The basic familiarity I gained in the program allowed me to understand what experienced fishermen do when working on these systems while commercial fishing for salmon this summer.

“I came to the program with almost no technical or mechanical skills. My internship provided me with the opportunity to observe and assist master Yamaha technicians working on outboards, electrical systems and other marine systems. Through the program, I gained enough basic knowledge to have a leg up as a commercial fisherman and to grasp new technical knowledge quickly.” - Amelia Oliver