Expand mobile version menu

Marine Mechanic

What To Learn

High School

What high school courses should you take if you're interested in this career? Get your answers from the Manufacturing cluster Maintenance, Installation and Repair pathway.

Insider Info

Additional Information

There are a number of ways to become a marine mechanic. Many colleges and technical schools throughout the U.S. offer programs that give you solid technical training in marine mechanics. The government provides marine mechanic programs through training with the U.S. Navy.

Schools offer various apprenticeship programs that provide the student with rewarding work experience under the supervision of professional mechanics, in addition to their regular course calendar.

Even high school courses in small engine repair or automotive maintenance can give a person a head start on a career in marine mechanics.

Tom Jefferson, a marine mechanic and owner of his own marine service business in Florida, has seen the industry change over the years, with such new technologies as fuel injection and emission systems.

He admits that it's a job where you have to keep up your training on current trends in marine mechanics. It is very important not only to have in-class training, but also hands-on experience. A good marine mechanic must be agile, patient, attentive, methodical and possess strong technical and troubleshooting skills.

"You can't always go by the book," says Jefferson.

Contact

  • Email Support
  • 1-800-GO-TO-XAP (1-800-468-6927)
    From outside the U.S., please call +1 (424) 750-3900
  • North Dakota Career Resource Network
    ndcrn@nd.gov | (701) 328-9733

Support