Marine Maintenance Technology

Overview

Marine Maintenance Technology (MT) prepares students for employment in the marine trades with a focus on two major disciplines: marine mechanics and marine electrical systems. The MT program offers one-year certificates in each of these high demand areas and a two-year Associate of Applied Science (AAS) degree for those who complete coursework in both fields.

Located in the heart of the Pacific Northwest’s maritime industry, the MT program has close affiliations with various marine manufacturers and service companies. Affordably priced, with out-of-state tuition waivers available, the program provides students with a unique opportunity to successfully begin a new career or expand upon existing skills.

Ongoing growth in the marine manufacturing and service industry within the pleasure, military, and commercial sectors is driving strong demand for skilled marine technicians. In response to this demand, Skagit Valley College is a member of the Marine Trades Accredited (MTA) program, a national consortium of marine technology educators providing industry standards-based training and education. In the MT program, students divide their time between the classroom and well-equipped lab facilities. Through on-site testing and preparation, students have an excellent opportunity to earn credentials with the American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC), National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA), Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA), and Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), as well as forklift certification and original equipment manufacturer (OEM) specific training.

Marine Mechanical training provides students with the skills and knowledge necessary to install, maintain, and repair modern marine engines and propulsion systems. Students learn the fundamentals of fuel, cooling, exhaust, ignition, lubrication, electrical, hydraulic, and control systems for gasoline and diesel engines. An emphasis is put on developing acute troubleshooting skills while adhering to industry best practices and techniques. Hands-on training covers how to install and repair inboard diesel and gasoline engines, sterndrives, and outboard motors to manufacturer’s specifications.

Marine Electrical system training teaches students how to install, repair, maintain, and troubleshoot modern boat systems using established industry standards and best practices. Systems course work includes learning about AC and DC electrical systems, plumbing, rigging, electronics, sanitation, refrigeration, communication, HVAC, and navigation systems. Certified instructors have direct industry experience and prepare students to apply their skills to virtually any professional scenario involving troubleshooting, repair, upgrading, and integrating modern marine systems on board vessels of all types.

Learning Outcomes:

General Education Learning Outcomes

Program Learning Outcomes

Graduates of the Marine Maintenance Technology program will be able to:

Demonstrate a fundamental knowledge of marine AC and DC electrical theory.
Demonstrate a fundamental working knowledge of marine engines.
Demonstrate the mechanical skills need to install, troubleshoot and repair diesel and gasoline marine engines.
Develop the knowledge and proficiency necessary to pass certification exams.
Exhibit safe and proficient work practices in the lab/shop environment..

Program Admissions:

Program entry begins with an application through Enrollment Services . Students may enter the Marine Maintenance Technology program Fall quarter or with department chair permission Winter quarter and will need to follow the Marine Maintenance Technology program map. Advanced standing may be requested for prior education or experience. All courses in this program require extensive reading and use of computer technology. The ability to read English at the 8th grade level or above is highly recommended. Students should be familiar with the use of computer technology. For further information, contact the Department Chair or Enrollment Services.

Specialized Program Information:

Career & Technical Education (CTE)

Please see Academic Information for information regarding CTE.

Faculty

Contact Co-Department Chair, Mike Beemer, mike.beemer@skagit.edu, 360.766.6282 ext. 3003, for more information.

Program Location

Marine Maintenance Technology program is located at the Northwest Career and Technical Academy, Marine Technology Center, 1606 R Avenue in Anacortes, Washington.

Work-Based Learning

Students will integrate their classroom learning with work-based learning experience in Cooperative Education (MT 199 ) at a supervised work site.

Degree and Certificate Options:

The Marine Maintenance Technology - Marine Technician emphasis Associate in Applied Science Degree, AAS is awarded upon completion of a minimum of 90 credits and related general education coursework. All coursework must be 100-level or above with both an overall 2.0 grade point average and a minimum 2.0 grade in each Marine Technology course.

Marine Mechanical Technician Certificate

A Certificate in Marine Mechanical Technician is awarded upon completion of certificate courses. All course work must be 100-level or above with a minimum C grade (or above) in each course. Students must be co-enrolled in program core classes or have instructor permission. Consult with department chair or SVC counselor for scheduling options.

Marine Electrical Technician Certificate

A Certificate in Marine Electrical Technician is awarded upon completion of certificate courses. All course work must be 100-level or above with a minimum C grade (or above) in each course. Students must be co-enrolled in program core classes or have instructor permission. Consult with department chair or SVC counselor for scheduling options.

Programs

Associate Degrees: Workforce

Intended to give students the skills needed to move directly into employment.

Marine Maintenance Technology, Marine Technician, AAS

Certificates

Certificates are intended to provide students with specialized training and skills.