To become a boat mechanic, research all options and obtain boat mechanic training and/or certification. Technical institutes and certification courses offer courses in marine mechanical and electrical systems, transmissions and sterndrives, and hydraulic systems. Communication skills are also important as boat mechanics interact with customers, boat owners, and parts manufacturers. Job markets vary by location.
There are several different ways to become a boat mechanic, and students should research all options. Most jobs require boat mechanic training and/or certification, and specific courses are offered on the Internet, at vocational schools, and at some colleges. There are additional skills required including some scuba training depending on the job and students are expected to thoroughly research the job requirements and duties. Various positions in the field may require other qualifications, and there are a number of mechanics-related courses available.
Schools that offer a boat mechanic degree are usually technical institutes that have an associate degree program or course preparing for the certification and licensure needed to become a boat mechanic. Most of these programs last about two years and courses can include internal transmissions, sterndrive systems, outboard steering, marine welding, hulls, and marine mechanical and electrical systems. Some graduate programs require an internship to graduate, which will increase a student’s knowledge of the ins and outs of boat maintenance. Internships allow students to observe and participate in supervised training that will help them become a watercraft mechanic.
In addition to the associate’s program, there are also certification courses that take relatively less time than earning a degree and provide students with the necessary licensure in their jurisdiction. Although the period is shorter, most of these classes involve full-day training, five days a week for a certain number of months, depending on the program. Topics covered by certification courses typically include transmissions and sterndrives, electrical and hydraulic systems, and lubrication and cooling systems. Students generally spend most of their class time performing physical tasks required to become a boat mechanic. Online courses are available, but they offer less training and more academic work, and some students find that he or she still needs additional training.
Job markets for boat mechanics can vary by location, and locations with warmer climates often have a more lucrative job stream. Those who would like to become boat mechanics must apply to places such as marinas, docks, boat shops or other places that house, sell or repair boats. Communication skills are also a necessity in this profession because he or she will have to interact with customers, boat owners, parts manufacturers and distributors. There are many in-house positions in boat shops or sales that can help those in colder climate areas looking for jobs as boat mechanics.
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