Marine industry

Boat builders construct, fit-out and repair marine vessels – from small pleasure and recreation craft e.g. jet skis through to larger commercial and naval vessels. Boat builders work on all aspects of building new marine vessels – from drafting the initial design; building the frame, hull, deck and cabins, installing engines and furnishings, and painting and finishing the completed vessel. They may also carry out repairs. These workers are often responsible for preparing slipway and building cradles to support vessels during construction, transportation, repair and launching. They may also supervise launching and slipping procedures, and conduct tests to ensure that any launched vessels are operating properly.

Marine cabinet use very refined skills in wood work and joinery to design and manufacture bespoke furniture and fittings for marine vessels. This may involve designing and constructing anything from tables and chairs to beds and cabinets. Those wanting to work in marine cabinet making should have a great eye for detail. Skills learnt in marine cabinet making are highly transferable to other industries.

Filling and Fairing is the preparation of a marine vessel for painting. Those wanting to work in Filling and Fairing should have a good attention to detail, have good communication skills. Filling/Fairing Technicians should have knowledge in filling, fairing and preparing substrates.

Interior/Exterior Marine Painters are responsible for ensuring flawless coatings on a wide range of marine vessels. Anyone wanting to work in marine coatings should have a good eye for details. In our Marine Coatings (Level 4 ) qualification apprentices gain knowledge and training in preparing interior/exterior substrates, creating controlled environments for painting and identifying and remedying defects on surfaces.

Marine Riggers are responsible for the fit out of a boat. Graduates of the Trailer Boat Rigging qualification have the skills and knowledge to fit out trail powerboats with accessories such as fish finders, sound systems, extra rod holders and more.

Those wanting to work in Chandlery (also known as marine retail) use an in depth knowledge of the marine industry to help customers buy epquipment for their vessel. Those wanting to work in chandlery should have good customer service skills.