Irish Boat Shop Partners with GLBBS for Marine Trades Showcase

Irish Boat Shop and the Great Lakes Boat Building School are partnering again for the second annual Marine Trades Showcase to be held at Irish Boat Shop’s Charlevoix Marina on Thursday, October 17, 2024. 

“A marine showcase engages our local student population and allows them to gain a genuine understanding of what marine jobs involve, along with the skills and traits necessary for success,” says Nikki Storey, president of Great Lakes Boat Building School. “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. 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 GLBBS.”

The showcase will include interactive stations where participants can explore the world of marine mechanics through hands-on activities like compression testing, battery maintenance and splicing techniques. Guests will also get a behind-the-scenes look at how certified technicians use cutting-edge computer systems for diagnostics and learn about shore power systems and collective efforts to keep our waters safe. 

“We value our relationship with Great Lakes Boat Building School as an institution that prepares students for careers with us in our boat restoration and marine services shops,” adds Jessica Smith, human resource manager at Irish Boat Shop. “These Marine Trades Showcases are a way for high school students to dip their toes in what it’s like to work in the marine industry and potentially find their passion.”

Irish Boat Shop has also collaborated with GLBBS through the Marine Dealers Education Network to help financially support GLBBS students in return for opportunities to connect with future graduates by providing employment sponsorships.

To learn more, visit glbbs.edu.