NMMA workforce initiative showcased at guidance counselor conference
NMMA launched a workforce branding effort last weekend in Boston by exhibiting at an annual conference targeting school guidance counselors. With an audience of more than 3,600 attendees, the ‘Explore Careers in the Boating Industry’ booth touched more than 1,500 visitors over three days — touting our industry as a career to be considered by middle and high school students.
NMMA partnered onsite with MIASF, MMTA and Yamaha Marine to engage and share information and giveaways donated by NMMA members. MRAA and RIMTA also played a key role in helping to pull this effort together.
The boating industry joined a myriad of other industries in attendance including the National Assoc. of Surveyors, landscape professionals, automotive, construction, trade unions, electricians, physical therapy, commercial pilots, and nearly every branch of the military — all working to fill their respective talent pipelines.
“The counselors were very engaged and eager to learn more about specific career, apprenticeship and training opportunities in our industry as they are all receiving more pressure and resources to identify and share career pathways with their students, outside of a four-year college degree,” said Julie Balzano, NMMA’s senior director for workforce development.
Joe Maniscalco, Yamaha Marine’s Service Division Manager and lead for his company’s workforce efforts added, “The opportunity to connect with educators at this conference to discuss career opportunities in the marine industry, has been invaluable. These guidance counselors influence the workforce of tomorrow and our presence here has opened the door to careers in boating.”
More details about this effort will be shared at the Workforce Super Session Seminar scheduled at IBEX on Sept. 30. To learn more and to register, visit: https://www.ibexshow.com/supersessions/.
