Marine Apprenticeship, Internship & Marine Trades Career Training, and Boatbuilding Programs in Rhode Island
Founded in 1964 and located at Newport RI, the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) represents all aspects of the recreational boating industry in its home state with over 300 companies includes boat builders, manufacturers, marinas, boatyards, service providers, retail and wholesale outfits, educational institutions and other organizations.
RIMTA is engaged in a diverse set of issues on behalf of its members; the organization’s Board of Directors represents all facets of the industry and chair committees on Boat Shows, Boating Safety, Dealers, Education & Training, Ferries & Charters, Fisheries, Legislative, Manufacturing, Marinas, Membership, and Yacht Clubs.
RIMTA keeps a close eye on the workforce challenges member companies face and coordinates workforce-development programs to address those challenges; the organization is also a resource for securing funding to train your existing workforce.
RIMTA’s Education & Training Committee oversees these initiatives and RIMTA’s Director of Programs Jen Huber is a valuable resource for members: she guides member companies to the programs and funding opportunities that fit their needs.
Training Programs
Apprentice & Internship Programs
- Pre-Apprenticeship Training Program (7 weeks): This hands-on training prepares participants in a wide range of areas–carpentry, welding, rigging, painting, forklift operation, marine systems, safety and other areas–as well as on-the-job experience in a short-term internship. Many employers in Rhode Island have found graduates of this training program to be valuable entry-level employees who are willing to work hard and learn.
- Summer Marketing Internship (6 weeks): This program is a great way for individuals from ages 18 to 24 to learn about marketing, public relations and event planning in the recreational marine industry. The program runs for 20 hours per week.
Career Training Programs
- Composites and Marine Trades Core Training Program (3 weeks): This program is for individuals seeking entry level jobs in the composites industry or at a boat yard, marina, or marine manufacturer. No boating experience is required. If you enjoy working with your hands and have other interests and skills - such as carpentry or working with engines - this program will help you start a composites or marine career. There is no cost to participate in this program for RI residents.
- On-The-Water Career Training: These programs prepare individuals for jobs as captain or crew on passenger vessels. For example, you could train to operate a motorized launch in Rhode Island. Or you could pursue a career as crew on a luxury yacht that travels to exotic locales to take guests on charters. Mechanical skills, experience in hospitality, and a sense of adventure are good backgrounds for these programs.
Boatbuilding Program
- Youth Summer Boatbuilding Program (6 weeks): The program incorporates work experiences, career exploration, leadership development, adult mentoring, basic skills development and job readiness services. Participants gain basic, academic and employment skills, earn their diploma and gain paid work experience, and receive a certificate of completion from RIMTA.
Other Programs
- Incumbent Worker and Professional Development: RIMTA co-ordinates and partners with area trainers to offer professional development and certification training on topics such as environmental regulations, OSHA, human resources, and industry roundtable discussions.
LAST UPDATED ON Sep 10, 2022