Oct 24, 2023

“Industry expert panel engages with marine service educators at the ABYC Foundation’s Educator Training Conference.”

The ABYC Foundation has opened registration for its fourth Educator Training Conference (ETC) set for April 2-4, 2024, in Annapolis, Maryland. The in-person conference caters to high school and post-secondary educators and administrators who are involved in, or thinking about starting, marine service technology programs at their school.

Industry leaders interested in marine workforce development are encouraged to attend. The event connects these leaders with key educators preparing the next generation of professionals.

The Educator Training Conference announcement comes on the heels of a successful Student Career Day event at the International Boatbuilders’ Exposition & Conference (IBEX) where ABYC provided a key networking platform for over 60 students from local marine service technology programs.

Sarah Devlin, ABYC Foundation accreditation director, commented, “The ABYC Foundation continues its commitment to bridging the gap between schools and the industry. The ETC is a meeting place for those training our future boat techs and the companies looking to hire them. It’s a chance for teachers to understand what the boat industry wants and to learn new methods and tools to improve their teaching.”

Attendees can anticipate a comprehensive agenda, encompassing professional development subjects, an exposition of training aids and marine products, essential resources for teaching marine service technology, insights into the industry’s current state, and the latest from the Foundation’s Marine Trades Accreditation Program (MTAP).

Sponsorship opportunities start at $1,500. Businesses have the option of backing local educators via conference scholarships or by donating merchandise for door prizes.

To learn more and register, visit www.teachboats.org/etc.