For recent high school graduates who are still undecided about a career path, the Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) will offer a third session of its Marine Trades Pre-Apprenticeship Program this summer. The intensive six-week training program begins on July 7 and claims to be a proven path to employment in the marine trades.

Launched in 2013, the Pre-Apprenticeship Program is for Rhode Islanders who are over 18 and looking to gain the skills needed for entry-level positions in the marine trades; the training can also lead to post-secondary training for candidates who want to deepen their skills further. The last class of graduates, who matriculated in March, achieved a 90 percent job-placement rate within 30 days of graduation.  

“The Pre-Apprenticeship Program has built strong credibility in the marine trades, and many employers now look to our program as a source for entry-level employees,” said Jen Cornwell, RIMTA’s workforce development coordinator. “Past graduates who have taken advantage of this free training and gone on to become valuable employees have helped us build a strong reputation throughout our industry.” 

The Pre-Apprenticeship Program is designed to give participants an overview of the marine industry and its career opportunities. The six-week curriculum includes hands-on training in areas such as painting, varnishing, composites, hauling, rigging, forklift operation, marine systems, sailmaking and commissioning, as well as training in safety procedures and job-readiness preparation.  

RIMTA coordinates the program with area employers and educational providers; training takes place throughout the state and requires a full-time commitment from participants. The program is free to participants, and there is a $100-per-week incentive for 100 percent attendance.  

RIMTA coordinates the program with leading marine-trades companies, including Hinckley, Hunt Yachts, Bristol Marine, New England Boatworks, Vanguard, Pirate Cove Marina, and Freedom Boat Club, and educational providers such as IYRS, MTTI, New England Tech and Confident Captain.

Interested candidates can find more information by visiting the RIMTA website at www.rimta.org or by contacting RIMTA Workforce Development Coordinator Jen Cornwell (jen@rimta.org. or call 396-9619).