Submitted by the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association
We have the jobs; we just need the people to fill them… As we continue to move forward during the current global pandemic, recreational boating has become a haven of quality time with family and friends on the water while socially distancing in a safe and responsible manner. Boat dealers are selling boats at record rates[1] and struggle to maintain inventory. Despite blows to most industries across the Commonwealth, boating is thriving[2] and increasingly popular with families around the country.
Yet, as boat sales and overall demand increases the industry has continued to see a shortage of trained workers. The Massachusetts Marine Trades Association (MMTA), collaborating with the Commonwealth of Massachusetts, has continued to focus on workforce solutions within the industry. MMTA continuously works with our members, our educational partners/schools, and job seekers throughout the state.
With unemployment numbers on the rise, the boating industry offers training options and potential future employment in the face of uncertain times. Educational partners like local vocational schools infuse the industry with trained employees that revitalize the industry.
In Massachusetts the recreational boating industry contributes approximately $4.4 billion to the state economy. There are approximately 1,000 businesses and roughly 20,000 employees[3]. The coronavirus pandemic has highlighted recreational boating as a safe outdoor activity; unfortunately, it has also further highlighted the need for a skilled workforce, which we as an industry are desperately seeking. Financial support of workforce endeavors & training remains critical to the sustainability of this industry and the larger economy of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts.
Training opportunities are available at a number of schools in and around Massachusetts (https://www.massboatingcareers.com/partner-school.html).
For more information on job/career opportunities, training and more within the boating industry please visit: www.massboatingcareers.com or www.boatma.com
[1] NMMA press release 7/15/2020 – May Boat Sales - https://www.nmma.org/press/article/23339
[2] Soundings Trade Only Today – 7/8/2020 - Soundings Article - Everything is Selling, Almost no Matter the Price
[3] NMMA Economic Infographics - Massachusetts Recreational Boating Industry Infographics - NMMA