Boatworks 101™
Boatworks 101™ is a paid, 12-month apprenticeship at Spaulding Marine Center that introduces young adults to the marine trades through hands-on training and an ABYC-registered curriculum. The program provides broad exposure to boat maintenance and repair skills, followed by an industry placement, preparing graduates for entry-level careers in the marine industry.
About the Program
In August 2021, Spaulding Marine Center launched Boatworks 101™, an innovative, first-of-its-kind apprenticeship program that trains the next generation of marine industry craftspeople.
The Boatworks 101 training program improves the quality of employment options for young people by offering paid apprenticeship training in a high-need industry in the San Francisco Bay Area and beyond.
It also aims to diversify the marine service industry by recruiting and supporting candidates of color, women, and other underrepresented populations. Successful completion of Boatworks 101 leads to full-time employment as entry-level marine service technicians and the opportunity to further specialize within the field.
Thank you to our Industry Partners
Several Bay Area organizations are playing a key role in supporting young, skilled individuals to enter the maritime industry. Through various commitments, such as hands-on workshops, training programs, and group tours, they are helping to cultivate a pool of talented marine technicians and offer job prospects for apprentices. These collaborative efforts are crucial investments in nurturing the next generation of marine service technicians.
For organizations in the Bay Area maritime sector looking to collaborate with our Boatworks 101™ Apprenticeship Program, please reach out to the Program Director. Thank you for your interest.
Program Details
Why become an apprentice?
Apprenticing is a proven method for training highly skilled, highly paid professionals driven directly by industry needs and input. From day one, apprentices are building on-the-job experience through direct mentorship.
Spaulding Marine Center supports apprentices with:
A set of hand and power tools
Textbooks, learning materials, access to online resources
Exclusive tours of Bay Area maritime companies
Lessons and workshops taught by industry experts
College credit through Las Positas Community College and access to student services
Waterfront working location every day
Access to our fleet of sailing and power vessels
Boatworks 101™ Apprenticeship Application Process
First Round: Online application open
April 1, 2026 - May 6, 2026
Second Round: Saturday May 16th, 2026 10 am - 12 pm. Spaulding Marine Center yard visit for selected candidates only
Third Round: May 20, - May 29, 2026. Interview in person for selected candidates only (specific times and dates tba)
Fourth Round: June 15, 2026. Communication of the final selection of candidates
Program Start: August 24, 2026
If you are interested in becoming an apprentice, learn more here.