Irish Boat Shop and Great Lakes Boat Building School to Host Annual Showcase

Irish Boat Shop’s Charlevoix Marina will host the annual Great Lakes Boat Building Showcase Thursday, October 17, 2024. The event provides students with an interactive experience to explore service and sales jobs in the marine industry, including marine carpentry, electrical and technician positions.

The Great Lakes Boat Building School has long been recognized by Irish Boat Shop for its efforts in helping to prepare future team members for Irish Boat Shop’s various locations. Daughter of founder Dave Irish and chair of the Irish Boat Shop Board, Susan Irish Stewart, started a sponsorship in honor of her father that helps support the school, as well as a scholarship program.

“Irish Boat Shop has been an amazing partner and has supported us since we started, as a member of our Advisory Board,” says Nikki Storey, president of GLBBS. “Dave Irish’s legacy continues on and gives the kids a leg-up in the marine industry.”

During the showcase, high school students can participate in hands-on activities like compression testing, battery maintenance, splicing techniques and how to use computer diagnostics from certified professionals. Students can also learn about shore power systems and safe boating and will have the chance to learn the art of marine sales. 

“This career path is rewarding and achievable without a four-year degree, which is encouraging to students who seek alternatives to a traditional college experience,” says Storey, “By partnering with Irish Boat Shop, we can provide students a chance to learn hands-on skills from a top-rated team of marine professionals while also promoting the training programs offered at Great Lake Boat Building School.”

“Following Dave Irish’s lead, Irish Boat Shop continues to invest in outside training and certifications for our own team and are always interested in hiring local residents. People here appreciate Northern Michigan’s boating atmosphere and we think it is important to help them learn the skills to be a part of our industry,” adds Shae Cross, president of Irish Boat Shop. “Our crew also enjoys sharing their knowledge with the students and are excellent role models for the coming generation.” 

Learn more at glbbs.edu and irishboatshop.com.