Starting in July, Cecil College launched its Marine Service Technology Program. Experienced marine surveyor, Captain Bill Weyant, teaches the bi-weekly classes at Safe Harbor Bohemia Vista Marina on the Chesapeake Bay.
“I’ve been looking to go into teaching for a while,” says Weyant, who’s been working on getting this program together for four or five years.
Ten students signed up for the inaugural program, which runs from July through January on Tuesday and Thursday evenings. The program provides students with an introduction to the marine service industry. Using curriculum from the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), students will learn the fundamentals of marine engines, outboard and inboard maintenance, marine electrical systems, boat safety, industry standards, and more. Upon completion of the program, students earn their Marine Service Technician Certificate.
“We do anything from showing them how to change impeller pumps or spark plugs, move props, install props, install batteries, do compression testing, and the fundamentals of marine mechanics. The idea is to get these students trained enough that they could get a work order and do it well,” says Weyant.
When it comes to prerequisites, Weyant says there are none. “We have an 18-year-old and 30-year-olds. Some have marine experience; others do not. I partner inexperienced students with those who have experience so that they help each other out.”
As well as having his 100-ton Master’s license, Captain Weyant is a certified ABYC member, an accredited SAMS member, thermal-imaging certified, and a member of multiple maritime associations.
Although there is no formal job placement at the end of the program, for those students who want it, Weyant notes that finding them jobs is as easy as him making a phone call to a marina.
“Any marina would be happy to take on some workers with this certification,” he says.
The next program may begin in spring. Visit the Cecil College website and search for the “skilled trades” page to learn more. For questions or to register, contact Amanda Pringle at (443) 907-1379 or [email protected].