There are several paths to becoming a boat mechanic, and students should investigate all of them thoroughly. The majority of jobs in boat mechanics require training and/or certification, and specific courses are available on the Internet, at vocational schools, and at some colleges. Depending on the job, additional skills, such as scuba diving training, are required, and students should thoroughly research job requirements and responsibilities. Other qualifications may be required for various positions in the field, and there are numerous mechanic-related courses available.
Technical institutes that offer an associate’s degree program or preparation coursework for the certification and licensing required to become a boat mechanic are the most common schools that offer a degree in boat mechanics. Inboard transmissions, stern-drive systems, outboard steering, marine welding, hulls, and marine mechanical and electrical systems are among the topics covered in most of these programs, which last about two years. Some associate degree programs will require students to complete an internship in order to graduate, which will help them gain a better understanding of the complexities of boat maintenance. Internships give students the opportunity to observe and participate in supervised hands-on training that will help them become boat mechanics.
Aside from the associate’s degree, there are also certification courses that take less time than a degree and provide students with the necessary licensing in their jurisdiction. Despite the shorter duration, most of these classes require all-day training five days a week for a specified number of months, depending on the program. Stern drives and transmissions, electrical and hydraulic systems, and lubrication and cooling systems are typically covered in certification courses. The majority of class time is usually spent performing physical tasks that are required to become a boat mechanic. Online courses are available, but they provide less training and more academic work, and some students find that they need more training.
Boat mechanic job markets vary depending on location, with warmer climates typically having a more lucrative employment circuit. Those interested in becoming a boat mechanic should apply at marinas, docks, boat shops, or other locations that house, sell, or repair boats. Because he or she will be interacting with customers, boat owners, manufacturers, and parts distributors, communication skills are also required in this profession. Many indoor positions with boat shops or sales are available, which may help those looking for work as boat mechanics in colder climates.