Garrett College has launched a hands-on marine technology program to support the county’s local tourism and workforce industry.
“Marine technology is certainly a good fit for our area,” said Josh Hook, Garrett College’s coordinator of workforce development. “It helps prepare students for entry-level work in local marinas to work on boat motors and service equipment needed for the tourism industry.”
The program – which starts with a 98-hour introductory course – is based at the Beitzel Career Technology Training Center and is funded by a grant awarded to Garrett College, via Frostburg State University, from the Economic Development Administration and the Maryland Department of Commerce’s Office of Tourism. Hook described the three-month program as “definitely hands-on and intensive.”
James Bolyard, a Mercury-certified mechanic, is the program instructor. Students are able to obtain certificates from Mercury, which with Yamaha are the two top marine engine companies in the industry.
Hook said the initial cohort of five students “is a good number to start with for our first cohort.”
“If we can continue to build this program, we may be able to offer a next-level course to build on the introductory piece,” said Hook, adding that local marinas told him “once we get people trained to send them their way” for employment opportunities.
Hook said the EDA/Maryland Tourism Grant Program funding financed four Mercury motors, diagnostic repair equipment, and an engine test tank “that actually holds water so that the motor can be placed into it.”
“We are appreciative of the opportunity to collaborate with Frostburg State University on the EDA/Maryland Tourism Grant Program,” said Julie Yoder, GC’s dean of continuing education and workforce training. “This initiative is allowing us to provide employers, incumbent workers, and job seekers with training and certifications to support the outdoor recreation industry in Garrett County.”
