The information below should be helpful if you are just learning about the
Massachusetts boating industry and the opportunities available as you get
started.
1) What exactly is the "boating industry" in Massachusetts?
Our state's boating industry encompasses approximately 140,000 registered and
documented boats. The economic impact of the recreational boating industry in
Massachusetts is approximately $5 billion. There are approximately 18,000 jobs
in the recreational boating industry and approximately 1,000 industry-related
businesses in the state. Jobs and careers within the industry include
inboard/outboard motor technician, diesel engine technician, sterndrive
technician, electronics technician, fiberglass technician, sales staff,
dockmaster and marina staff, administration and finance staff, front desk staff,
travel lift operator, yard staff, painter, electrician, parts specialist, and
many more.
2) As a new employee within the boating industry, what can I expect as a salary
or hourly wage?
This is a common question in the industry and ultimately depends on the
hiring business. It can also vary by location throughout the state. What we can
say is that if you work hard, are passionate about what you do, and continue to
grow within the industry, you can very easily create a sustainable career for
yourself. In addition, the MMTET continues to provide workforce studies,
including wage and benefits information, which can be accessed by visiting
http://massboatingcareers.com/ at
the bottom of the page.
3) What schools in our area offer training that would prepare me for a career
within the boating industry?
Here is a link to the current list of boating industry training schools that the
Massachusetts Marine Trade Association (MMTA) currently works with:
http://massboatingcareers.com/partner-school.html
4) Are there scholarship opportunities available if I am interested in
attending a boating industry-related school?
Yes. MMTET offers a scholarship program for Massachusetts residents pursuing
training within the boating industry. Find more information on the program and
how to apply at:
http://massboatingcareers.com/scholarship.html
5) What suggestions do you have for me as I start to explore the career
opportunities within the boating industry?
Ask questions and do your research. This is probably one of the most important
parts of looking at any new opportunity. If you are interested in learning more
about the boating industry, specifically in Massachusetts, I would suggest a
couple of avenues for getting started in gathering more information:
Mass Marine Trades Association (MMTA) members. You can search for MMTA members
by location on our main website. Feel free to contact the businesses, ask
questions, set up a time to visit, and learn more about what they do. They are
happy to help. Visit:
https://www.boatma.com/members/members_by_location to find members near you.
MMTA and MMTET board members. Feel free to reach out to them with questions
you may have. You can find names and contact information for the MMTET Trustees
at:
http://massboatingcareers.com/about-us.html and for the association's board
members at:
https://www.boatma.com/officers_and_directors.html
6) What are the current job/career opportunities available?
As part of our new website, we have created a jobs/careers listing board for our
members to post open positions at their businesses. This is just a small sample
of the opportunities currently available, but it will give you a better idea of
the positions and employers' expectations. Here is the link to the site for MA
Boating Jobs/Careers listings:
http://massboatingcareers.com/jobs.html
7) Why should I work in the boating industry?
The boating industry is amazing to be a part of. Those of us fortunate enough to
work in boating get to serve a clientele that is typically very happy, as
they're participating in a recreational hobby they love. The boating industry is
filled with both passionate boaters and workers who enjoy being on or around the
water. We love what we do and enjoy going to work. You may have heard it before,
and it is true: no matter what work you choose, if you enjoy it, it will make
your career much more enjoyable and sustainable. Why not find out for yourself
if a career in the boating industry is for you!