The fourth cohort of apprentices are entering the 4th month of the 12-month Boatworks 101 program. Thanks to PCC’s grant award, the apprentices have spent several classroom hours going through the ABYC Marine Service Technician textbook and workbook, led by the Boatworks 101 main instructor. Supplemented with the bookwork, the apprentices have participated in several hand-on workshops led by experts in each field. The following courses have been highlights for the apprentices thus far: vacuum bagging, diesel mechanics, outboard motors, and varnishing.

Going into 2025, the cohort will continue to improve their skills in the yard and gain more exposure to hands-on workshops in the field. Additionally, we will begin to coordinate with our industry partners to line up internship opportunities for each apprentice. The internship experience will begin in May 2025 so look out for applications in spring of 2025.

George applied to become an apprentice with encouragement from his childhood friend, Rashad, a graduate of the first cohort of apprentices in 2022. George was attracted to the program because he sought a fulfilling career to support himself and his family. Stepping out from industries familiar to him, George chose to invest in himself by applying to the program – and now he takes pride in the knowledge and experience he is gaining as an apprentice. Rashad mentioned to George that he would learn from many specialized folks at Spaulding, and George’s expectations have been met not only by our yard crew, but also by the instructors who invest their time for our apprentices. George has taken to varnishing following workshops led by instructor Patty Swenson. He looks forward to further varnishing and painting projects to build his skills. He is also looking forward to gaining understanding from an electrical course taught by Clark Beek.

Flip was inspired by their parents’ involvement on the local waterfront during their youth. Flip has pursued the Boatworks 101 program to forge their path working in the industry. Flip has found that being surrounded and taught by individuals who are passionate about teaching has been a benefit of the program at Spaulding. Almost 4 months into the program, Flip is finding interest in the work they do in the yard. Looking forward, Flip is excited to gain more hands-on experience with diesel engines and outboard motors. In a course coming up soon, a graduate of the 2nd cohort of apprentices will be leading an engine course.

Ricky is a strong water and marine enthusiast, so it’s no wonder he was drawn to the Boatworks 101 program to gain more exposure to the maritime world. He is inspired by the connections that Spaulding’s community of customers and volunteers have shared with the apprentices in the program. These connections have allowed Ricky, and the other apprentices, the opportunities to take a diesel engine course at List Marine and participate in a vacuum bagging boat build at Berkeley Marine Center – both of which are highlights of Ricky’s experience in the program so far. Ricky is looking forward to discovering where he will have the opportunity to intern during his summer placement. He’s gearing towards learning more about diesel engines or woodworking.