Marine Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program applications out now

by Cynthia Goss on 15 May 2013 Those interested in attaining the skills needed to work in the marine industry now have a new training opportunity available through the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA). RIMTA’s Marine Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program will offer an intensive, five-week training session this summer for those looking to gain the skills needed for entry-level positions. Applications are now being accepted from qualified candidates.

The pre-apprenticeship program will consist of 205 hours of training for individuals who are 18 years and older and give participants a pathway to paid employment. The program can also lead to post-secondary or continued apprenticeship training for those candidates who want to deepen their skills further.

Working with educational and employer partners such as IYRS, the New England Institute of Technology, Confident Captain, and Hinckley Yachts, the program will give participants hands-on skills training in several entry-level areas, including: painting, varnishing, composites, hauling, rigging, fork and travel lift operation, shrink wrapping, and winterizing and commissioning. Participants will also receive training in safety procedures, knot tying, tool handling, industry terminology, and overall job-readiness skills.

The summer session for the Marine Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program takes place from July 9, 2013 to August 15, 2013. Students attend the program Monday to Friday, from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Five Rhode Island companies have already committed to considering available candidates for entry-level job openings to ensure this program leads to real jobs. Those companies include: Hinckley Yachts, Hunt Yachts, Newport Shipyard, Freedom Boat Club, and Vanguard.

This new training program has been made possible by an Innovative Partnership grant awarded by the Governor’s Workforce Board of Rhode Island.

The pre-apprenticeship program is free for trainees, but space is limited. Interested candidates should visit RIMTA.org for more information and an application.

Completed applications should be emailed to Jen Cornwell of RIMTA (jen@rimta.org) or mailed to RIMTA (99 Poppasquash Road, Bristol, RI 02809). Applications must be received by Friday, May 31, 2013. Questions can be directed to Jen Cornwell (jen@rimta.org / 401-396-9619).