Frequently Asked Questions about IYRS and Careers in the Marine Industry
Q: What type of educational programs does IYRS offer?
A: IYRS offers three full-time certificate programs in Boatbuilding & Restoration, Marine Systems and Composites Technology. IYRS is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools & Colleges (ACCSC). In the 20-month Boatbuilding & Restoration program, students work on restoring classic wooden boats and develop strong boatbuilding and woodworking skills—training that can be used in jobs at modern and restoration boat yards. In the 6-month Marine Systems program, students learn the many trades that comprise the boat manufacturing and service trade such as plumbing, electrical, gas and diesel engines, HVAC and refrigeration, electronics and steering systems. In the 6-month Composites Technology program, students learn vacuum infusion processing, advanced composites molding, CAD operations, robotic CNC plug building and composites restoration practices. IYRS also offers a Continuing Education program which is focused on the type of short-term skills training desired by employers and includes courses in onboard systems, commissioning and maintenance, coatings application, and even alternative energy for boats.
Q: Is there a typical IYRS student in the full-time programs, in terms of age, education, and previous work experience?
A: No. Students in the current class are a diverse group, ranging in age from 18 to 60. The student body includes high school graduates and GED recipients, as well as adults and professionals who are seeking skills for a new career path. Students do not need prior woodworking, boatbuilding or maintenance skills in order to gain admission to our programs but should be comfortable working with their hands. The
school has a worldwide reputation, and students from North America, Europe, and Asia have studied at IYRS.
Q: Is IYRS competitive to gain admissions to?
A: IYRS looks for people that are committed to being successful students during their time here and will also go on to become the high caliber employee that employers have come to expect of an IYRS graduate. Although our students come from very diverse backgrounds and abilities, what they all have in common is a love for the water and boating.
Q: Is financial aid available?
A: Financial assistance for full-time students is available from a variety of sources. IYRS participates in the Federal Pell Grant Program, Direct Federal Stafford Loan Program, and PLUS – Federal Parent Loan for Undergraduate Students. Tuition assistance is also available through the U.S. Department of Veterans Administration for veterans who qualify for educational benefits. IYRS also offers scholarships.
Q: What is the job-placement rate for IYRS graduates?
A: IYRS‘ Manager of Student Affairs assists each graduating student with job placement. Also, industry job openings are posted on the IYRS website and our annual Career Day is attended by a wide range of companies who come to interview our graduating students. Students who graduate from IYRS’ full-time programs have been successful in finding employment and receive very strong satisfaction ratings from employers—and IYRS has a reputation for graduating individuals with a passion for their work and pride in their workmanship. The school has a strong relationship with the marine industry. IYRS is often the first choice for marine industry businesses looking to hire employees and they contact the school regularly to fill their open positions.
Q: Do you provide housing for students?
A: IYRS does not provide campus housing but our Academic Coordinator assists all prospective students in locating housing. We have an extensive number of contacts with realtors and landlords in both the Newport and Bristol areas for students seeking housing.
Q: Do you have an externship program?
A: Yes, many IYRS students work on externship assignments to give them hands-on experience while reinforcing their respective program’s curriculum. Externship assignments are arranged by the Director of Student & Industry Relations and are available in the Newport and Bristol areas, or if possible, in the home state of the student. Typical externships are done in a marina, manufacturer or service yard.
Q: How can I learn more about IYRS?
A: Individuals with questions about certificate programs and the admissions procress are encouraged to contact Admissions Director Ned Jones by email or phone (401-848-5777, x203). Potential applicants with questions about financial aid should contact Manager of Student AFfairs Debra Huntington by email or by phone (401-848-5777, x205). Individuals considering the full-time programs often take Continuing Education courses to get better acquainted with the school. Several Open Houses are also held throughout the year.
Q: How big is the marine industry in Rhode Island? How many people does the industry employ?
A: There are over 2,000 marine related businesses in Rhode Island, which is nearly 10 percent of all private employers in the state. Rhode Island’s marine industry accounts for $1.6 billion in sales and provides 6,600 jobs. The state of Rhode Island has recognized the marine industry as a business sector targeted for long-term growth (along with construction, health care, information technology, and tourism). As a result, there is a growing effort to more fully develop the skilled workforce needed to keep one of the state’s oldest manufacturing sectors alive and well.
Q: What types of jobs are available in the marine industry?
A: Carpenters, electricians, electronic technicians, marine engine technicians (gas and diesel), machine operators, welders, riggers, varnishers, fiberglass & composite fabricators, metal & plastics workers, canvas makers, upholsterers, and yard hands are among the types of workers hired by boat builders, boat yards, and marine manufacturers.
Q: Can the skills used in other manufacturing jobs be applied to marine-industry jobs?
A: Yes. Many of the same skills utilized in other manufacturing sectors can be applied to marine-industry jobs, although a combination of those skills with a basic understanding of marine systems is often needed. Plumbers, welders, electricians, painters, carpenters, machinists and auto mechanics are just some examples of the skills that can be transferred to marine careers.
Q: How do wages in the marine industry compare with wages in other sectors?
A: Based on data collected in 2007-2008, the average salary in the marine sector in Rhode Island was $39,400, which exceeds the average pay for all industries in the state.
Q: Is the work seasonal?
A: Although the boating season in New England is largely focused on the summer months, the majority of jobs in the marine sector are year-round. At some companies—for example, a boat yard—the type of work done during the spring will differ from the type of work being done during the winter. However, many builders and manufacturers have a steady pace of year-round production.
Q: Is the demand for workers in the marine industry high?
A: There has traditionally been a shortage of skilled workers in the marine sector. Based on a study done in 2007-2008, it is projected that an additional 2,400 workers will need to be trained in the next five to ten years. This projection is based on the long-term economic picture, already-planned development of marine facilities, and replacement of workers who will be retiring. As with any long-term projection, economic downturns are expected along with periods of growth. The Rhode Island Marine Trades Association (RIMTA) is dedicated to gathering the most current data.
Q: Why is the marine industry so strong in Rhode Island?
A: Rhode Island provides an ideal setting for the marine industry. Narragansett Bay, with its many miles of coastline and ample space for boat yards and marinas, is an economic engine that drives the industry. As a result, Rhode Island has drawn a high concentration of marine businesses: boat builders, boat yards and marinas are here, as well as the businesses that supply the builders and yards, such as sail makers, rigging manufacturers, and canvas companies. The state also has a strong network of educational institutions with training programs tailored to the needs of the industry. The marine industry is further buoyed by Rhode Island’s healthy tax policy that encourages people to buy and keep their boats in Rhode Island.
Q: How do I learn about job opportunities?
A: For immediate job availability, NetworkRI—the job placement arm of the Rhode Island Department of Labor and Training—is often the best place to start. RIMTA also lists jobs on its workforce website, www.boatsworkri.com. Career Days and industry open houses coordinated by organizations such as IYRS and RIMTA—are also good ways to talk to employers and learn about opportunities.