Spaulding Marine Center’s Boatworks 101 Welcomes New Apprentices

As noted in our current November issue, the Spaulding Marine Center Boatworks 101 Apprenticeship Program, established in 2021, has graduated 26 certified boat service technicians, all of whom have entered the marine industry workforce — most remaining in the Bay Area. Graduates have pursued careers in diesel engine service, shipwright work, marine electrical systems, outboard mechanics, varnishing, rigging, and other marine trades.

On August 18, Boatworks 101 welcomed its fifth cohort — five apprentices eager to advance their skills and careers in the marine trades. The fall semester emphasizes marine propulsion, following chapters from the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) textbook and supplemented by workshops led by industry professionals. Apprentices receive comprehensive instruction in boat handling, yard safety, and the operation of woodworking tools including table saws, routers and planers. Working alongside experienced mentors, they gain hands-on experience in hauling, sanding, painting, varnishing, and performing a range of boat repairs, including gelcoating, fiberglassing and woodworking.

Each cohort also visits Bay Area boatyards and specialized marine businesses — rigging, canvas, and sailmaking shops — to broaden their exposure and build professional connections.

Throughout the nine-month program, apprentices are guided in identifying their professional specialization, culminating in a three-month internship with a local marine business. When the placement proves to be a good fit, the internship leads to guaranteed employment upon graduation.

Apprentice Zachary Boge hopes to “find a job working on diesel or gas engines and one day working for TowBoatUS and [rescuing] people on the water with my skills.”

Apprentice Katie McKinnon says, “After the apprenticeship I envision myself continuing my education in systems: both mechanical and electrical. Eventually, I’d like to design systems for expedition sailboats and help others go on exciting adventures.”

Brutus Dennis sees a different opportunity. “At this point in the apprenticeship, I am most excited to develop my skills in finish painting and varnishing.”

Boatworks 101 partners with organizations dedicated to workforce development and offers paid, practical training to meet the growing demand for skilled marine technicians. Looking ahead, Spaulding plans to continue selecting outstanding candidates, and aspires to provide affordable housing for apprentices joining from outside the Bay Area.

Learn more about Spaulding’s Boatworks 101 program here.