Marine Industries Association of South Florida starts another service tech apprenticeship course
Following a highly-successful kick-off of their two-year Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program in 2020, the Marine Industries Association of South Florida (MIASF) announces the start of their second apprenticeship course.
Despite the global pandemic, the program was modified following CDC guidelines to continue without interruption throughout 2020, and successfully rolled out a second class earlier this year.
The new class of 17 apprentices began their studies in January, exceeding MIASF’s goal of 12 apprentices for the second class. Led by instructor Jon Lowell, the program incorporates a mix of classroom studies and on the job training to move students through the two-year course which addresses eight different skills often found in boatyard operations including rigging, pipefitting, welding, painting and carpentry.
In addition to an increase in enrolled students, MIASF is also pleased to announce that 12 local businesses have signed up to participate in the program this year. This reflects a substantial increase from the four businesses that were part of the inaugural program.
“We are really excited with the phenomenal growth and increased interest in our apprenticeship program,” said Lori Wheeler, MIASF Vice-President and program chair. “The unwavering support of marine businesses, especially during these pandemic times, is a key factor in the program’s continued success. We couldn’t be happier to present this unique educational opportunity to our students and look forward to watching their marine industry careers flourish after graduation.”
The apprenticeship program is a partnership between MIASF, the Florida Department of Education and Atlantic Technical College. The goal is to provide apprentices with a basic set of shipyard skills to jump start a career in the marine industry.
Anyone interested in learning more about the MIASF Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program may contact Jon Lowell at jonathananthony.lowell@browardschools.com or (954)-524-2733.
