Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island completes first program of 2019 Season
by Barby MacGowan 16 Apr 2019 09:31 PDT
(left) Nathan Plummer working on basic joinery skills; (right) Captain Jonathan Kabak talking to students about marine systems in Oliver Hazard Perry's engine room (Photo courtesy of OHPRI;) © Lisa Goodwin
In an exciting proof of concept, Oliver Hazard Perry Rhode Island (OHPRI) recently completed the first of what will be several innovative new programs this season aboard the Tall Ship Oliver Hazard Perry (OHP). Working under a new operational model, which promises to utilize the ship in diverse and creative ways beyond long-distance voyaging, OHPRI provided six days of hands-on experience to nine participants in the Rhode Island Marine Trade Association's (RIMTA) Pre-Apprenticeship Program while the ship was in winter layup.
"Partnering for the first time with OHPRI has allowed the RIMTA Marine Trades Core Training Program to introduce its participants to an array of industry-specific training topics that will provide them with employable skills" said RIMTA Executive Director Brian Dursi. "While the ship is undergoing maintenance during a yard period, the students are learning about marine coatings, propulsion systems, hydraulics, AC/DC wiring, rigging and safety. This has been a great opportunity to utilize the resources of Rhode Island's Official Tall Ship to introduce Rhode Islanders to the career opportunities in the marine industry within the state."
Program participants were identified through Skills for Rhode Island's Future and received training both aboard OHP and at the Community College of Rhode Island's Newport Campus. Contributing greatly to the student experience was the opportunity to utilize quality marine industry products generously donated by Jamestown Distributors.
"We are thrilled that we are not only piloting a new way forward for OHP but also contributing to the prosperity and successes of Rhode Islanders," said OHPRI CEO Captain Jonathan Kabak.
For more information about this and other programs aboard Oliver Hazard Perry contact Captain Jonathan Kabak at or (401) 841-0080. www.ohpri.org