Apr 8, 2025

In response to the Trump tariffs announced on April 2^nd in what he called “Liberation Day”, last weekend people poured into the streets of Washington, Los Angeles and other U.S. cities to protest President Donald Trump’s actions to overhaul the government and wage a trade war against the rest of the world.

“Hands Off!” demonstrations were organized in more than 50 states but will the demonstrations change anything or will they result in Trump “doubling down” as he usually does? So far, boats have not been in the cross hairs and our Canadian marine trade associations are working very hard during the final days of our Canadian election campaign, to raise awareness of the value and importance of the marine industry. We need the luxury tax to be delayed or dropped. But what else can we do in the meantime to benefit the business and our customers?

Canada has what some might call an installed base of boats and it makes sense to maintain and keep those boats in good condition, on the water and changing hands too. The industry would be wise to emphasize service and maintenance to keep those boats in good and safe condition while we wait for the day the government stops damaging the business and lets us just get on with it.

We know how to maintain and repair engines and drives but I believe a big part of boating is pride of ownership and the beauty of the boats. Our May 2025 issue of Canadian Boating magazine features a big spread on the antique and classic boat shows planned for this summer. It’s clear that people respond to the beauty of these “like new” restored boats with pride.

We have written about the need for more marine techs being trained in composites repair and restoration. Just like an antique wooden boat can be refinished, so can a fiberglass boat. You just need people with knowledge and skills who can do it.

In a few weeks I’ll be heading to London, Ontario to take the ACT, (Advanced Composites Training) course. It’s a very intense one-week long program but Wilson Boynton, the lead instructor assured me that the Module One program, “Composites Materials, Fabrication and Damage Repair” will be packed with valuable information and resources. After giving this long and careful consideration, I decided to sign myself up. I went to their website and had a closer look. (https://advancedcompositestraining.ca).

You will also find other more specialized and higher-level programs where people can increase their knowledge and skill level. The organization actually works with aviation, automotive and other more demanding composites applications so I’m feeling very confident in the quality of the courses.

Have a look at the website and consider how this could benefit you and your business. Perhaps I’ll see you there!

Andy Adams – Editor