Charting a New Course

Six Graduate from Summer Boat Building Academy

Carteret Community College is proud to celebrate six new graduates of the Summer 2025 Boat Building Academy, an innovative program designed to provide hands-on training in one of our region’s leading industries. These students, all participants in a Study Release partnership with Carteret Correctional Facility, are now equipped with the skills they need to launch careers in the marine trades.

This 144-hour academy, part of Carteret CC’s extensive Marine Trades programming, focused on high-demand skills such as fiberglass composite construction, boat systems, and safety certifications including OSHA-10 and forklift operation. In addition to technical training, students also completed over 14 hours of instruction in workplace success skills, ensuring they’re prepared to meet the demands of today’s employers.

Through the Study Release initiative, these graduates took part in an innovative workforce reentry program that supports both their personal growth and economic independence. By the time of their release, they will be ready to join a variety of marine employers across Carteret County, bringing new talent, motivation, and training into the industry.

The Boat Building Academy is a streamlined version of Carteret CC’s comprehensive Boat Manufacturing and Service Technology program. Students gain exposure to blueprint reading, lofting, mold-making, composite and fiberglass construction, woodworking, marine systems installation, and much more. Together, these skills open doors to employment with yacht and boat manufacturers, service yards, dealerships, and custom boat builders throughout the region.

We applaud these graduates for their dedication, their determination, and their commitment to building a better future, one boat at a time.