The American Boat & Yacht Council has launched a new online course, “Introduction to Boatyard Basics,” designed to help newcomers build confidence and skills as they start in the marine industry. The course helps those hired for general labor positions by providing a strong foundation for onboarding and orientation.

“Boatyard jobs are plentiful and can’t be sent overseas or replaced by AI,” ABYC education director Tim Murphy said in a statement. “Beyond steady work, these roles offer community, camaraderie and a connection to the waterfront. New neuroscience has demonstrated heightened well-being among people who solve problems with their hands. There’s never been a better time to build a career in the boatyard.”

Course topics include:

• antifouling preparation and coating
• corrosion protection through anode replacement
• detailing painted and gelcoated composite surfaces
• shrink-wrapping for transport or seasonal storage
• developing safe working practices
• applying environmentally responsible working practices

More information about “Introduction to Boatyard Basics” is available here.