Program Overview

Program Overview

The Marine Propulsion Systems program trains marine technicians to service the outboard marine industry. Coursework blends classroom instruction, lab exercises, and live projects to build real troubleshooting skills.

Focus areas include two-stroke and four-stroke outboard engines (from lower unit to powerhead), vessel rigging, ignition systems (from alternator-driven to modern computerized systems), fuel systems (carbureted to electronic), and fuel delivery from the tank forward. Students learn to interface laptops with engines for diagnostics and history, maintain electronic customer files, perform failure analysis, and rebuild engines when required. Hydraulic systems, lower-unit service, and proper vessel propping are also covered.

Graduates qualify for entry-level technician roles in boat maintenance facilities, parts sales and ordering, and related positions in military and commercial marine environments. The skillset also supports paths into boat sales or marine-focused self-employment.

Program Overview

The Boat Manufacture and Service Technology program prepares students for employment in the manufacture and service of boats. Students learn the basics of boat design and the implementation of those designs in various components and/or complete boats or yachts.

These curricula are designed to prepare individuals for various careers in horticulture. Classroom instruction and practical laboratory applications of horticultural principles and practices are included in the program of study.

Course work includes reading and interpreting marine blueprints, manuals, and other documents common to the industry; lofting; constructing forms and mold-making; application of concepts and techniques in composite, and fiberglass; marine woodworking; interior finishing; and marine mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems.

Graduates may find employment with boat/yacht manufacturers, service yards, dealerships doing commissioning work, and companies doing custom boat building.