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By: MIASF Staff

Date posted: Jan 31, 2022 Mon

The third class of the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program has launched in a BIG way. Up more than 35% in enrollment from last year’s class, 23 apprentices began their 2-year journey of earning their nationally recognized credentials through on-the-job training and classroom instruction. Throughout the two-year program, the apprentices will be introduced to a wide variety of topics including but not limited to, electric, hydraulics, welding, carpentry, painting, and more, to prepare these high-skilled and high-trained individuals for a successful career in our industry.
 
This year’s class is beginning being taught by Bruce Evangelista, Hydraulics Group Manager of High Seas Hydraulics, as he brings more than 39 years of marine industry experience and expertise to the apprentices in the classroom.
 
Employer participation and support has also grown dramatically in the past year as there are now 18 companies on board as participating employers. The support and backing from our industry businesses is extremely important to the continued success and growth of the program and the next generation workforce for our industry. Current employers participating in the program include: AME Solutions, Inc., Aquamare, Bradford Marine, Derecktor, Engineered Yacht Solutions, FHG Marine Engineering, Frank & Jimmie’s Propeller, Gillen Yacht Services, Griffin’s Yacht Services, High Seas Technology, High Seas Yacht Service, MarineMax, RMK Merrill-Stevens, Rolly Marine, Roscioli Yachting Center, Safe Harbor Lauderdale Marine Center, Starboard Yacht Group, and TDW Marine.
 
A highlight of this year’s class of apprentices is the job placement opportunities provided to the participating employers. As we all work to fill our employing needs, when we receive interest from someone to participate in the program, we send out their resume to all 18 participating employers for an opportunity to hire these individuals. Just in this year’s class 4 individuals found employment and therefore enrollment in the program through this process. It is an added benefit to participating employers to have access to this new pool of future employees interested in furthering their own career in our industry and investing in their skill set.
 
This class of apprentices will begin in the module of Shipyard Safety. Currently, they are receiving their Maritime 10-hour OSHA Certification that is being taught by Pat Kelly of Bradford Marine. Pat Kelly has gone above and beyond with each class of apprentices donating his time to help these apprentices get the necessary hours of training for their certification.
 
If you’re interested in finding out how you can get involved in the program and support it as a participating employer, please contact Lori Wheeler at lori@miasf.org.