MarineMax establishes apprenticeship programme

Recreational boat, yacht and superyacht services company, MarineMax has established a Marine Service Technician Apprenticeship Programme for the State of Florida, USA.

The programme spans three years, but can be shortened to one and a half years with approved experience, and consists of hands-on mentor-led and online self-led training at an assigned Florida location. The Marine Service Technician Apprenticeship Programme is registered through the Florida Department of Education (FDOE) and is recognised by the Florida Department of Veteran’s Affairs (FDVA).

Andy Rishovd, MarineMax‘s national service and parts manager, comments: “We are honoured to introduce the Marine Service Technician Apprenticeship Programme to the State of Florida. We designed this initiative to help elevate marine industry skill development and provide aspiring technicians with valuable opportunities. This programme is a testament to our commitment to fostering talented individuals and ensuring a skilled workforce in the ever-growing maritime community.”

In addition to gaining approval from FDOE and FDVA for the Marine Service Technician Apprenticeship Programme, MarineMax has received $382,000 from The Pathways to Career Opportunities Grant (PCOG/Pathways Grant) Program administered by FDOE to support running the programme.

This grant programme is an annual appropriation from the Florida Legislature in the General Appropriations Act that seeks applicants from high schools, charter, technical career centres, Florida college system institutions, and other entities authorised to sponsor an apprenticeship or pre-apprenticeship program.