The Marine Industries Association of South Florida is celebrating the successful kick-off of its two-year apprenticeship course. Meanwhile, Discover Boating has launched a content collection to help guide boaters heading into this year’s season.

MIASF’s goal is to provide apprentices with a basic set of yard skills to jumpstart a career in the marine industry. The success of the first year of a two-year program triggered the launch of the second such course.

Because of the pandemic, the program was modified following Centers for Disease Control guidelines and continued without interruption throughout 2020. MIASF now has started the second class.

The new class of 17 apprentices began their studies in January, exceeding MIASF’s goal of 12 apprentices. Led by instructor Jon Lowell of the Broward Schools, the program incorporates a mix of classroom studies and on-the-job training to move students through the two-year program. The training centers around eight skills typically found in boatyard operations, including rigging, pipefitting, welding, painting and carpentry.

In addition to the increased enrollment, MIASF announced that 12 local businesses have signed up to participate in the program, up from the four businesses that were part of the inaugural program.

“We are really excited by the growth and interest in our apprenticeship program,” said Lori Wheeler, MIASF vice president and program chair. “The unwavering support of marine businesses, especially during these pandemic times, is a key factor in the program’s continued success. We are proud to offer students this educational opportunity and look forward to watching their marine industry careers flourish after graduation.”

The program is a partnership between MIASF, the Florida Department of Education and Atlantic Technical College. To learn more about the program, contact Jon Lowell at jonathananthony.lowell@browardschools.com.

Be a Boat Show Insider

With the peak boating season approaching, the Discover Boating campaign released the Ultimate Boat Show Insider Guide, a solid resource for boaters and wannabes to kick-start their 2021 boating plans.

With most winter shows on pause this year, this content-rich collection features a roundup of new boats and gear, and a host of tips and information. It was created specifically to inspire and educate new and dedicated boat buyers.

“The Ultimate Boat Show Insider Guide will help boat-show enthusiasts access many resources they often seek this time of year at a boat show,” says Ellen Bradley, NMMA senior vice president and chief brand officer. “This guide is one way we’re engaging Discover Boating and NMMA Boat and Sport Shows audiences, making sure we’re staying in touch with them and keeping boating top-of-mind as they start dreaming of experiences they want to have with friends and family in 2021 and beyond.”

Topics range from advice for new boat owners to best practices for green boating and the latest off-the-grid destinations. In addition, experts share their knowledge in articles about best boating practices, tips for new owners, boating safety, places to boat and more.

Dealers and other industry stakeholders are encouraged to share the Ultimate Boat Show Insider Guide on their social channels, websites and in emails to help engage, educate and stay connected with customers. Moreover, coming shortly will be an online toolkit featuring sample social posts and newsletter copy.