Boatworks Apprenticeship Applications Open at Spaulding Marine Center

In recent weeks we’ve been sharing information about youth sailing opportunities around the Bay. Today we’re sharing another great new piece of news — Spaulding Marine Center is now inviting youth from 18 years of age to apply for the first intake of Boatworks 101 apprenticeships.

Boatworks 101, which has been approved by the California Division of Apprenticeship Standards, will provide the opportunity for young people to embark upon a career in the maritime trades industry through a 15-month ‘learn while they earn’ program.

“We’re excited to be opening applications,” said Spaulding’s education director, Jay Grant. “The Bay Area marine industry has been in need of skilled and experienced people to join their crews and is behind this program 100 percent.”

During the first nine months, apprentices will train at Spaulding Marine Center, where they will learn shop safety and tool skills while also gaining familiarity with marine carpentry, structural work, propulsion, and yacht systems. They will then spend the next six months rotating through Bay Area businesses and have the opportunity to practice their skills while learning from electricians, diesel mechanics, riggers, carpenters, composites experts, and other specialists throughout the industry.

“We’re not here to simply create people who can use tools” added Jay. “We’re planning on teaching our apprentices to be craftspeople, people Myron Spaulding would be proud to work with.”

Applications close on April 15. If you know of any young person who is interested in a career in the marine industry, be sure to send them this story.