CEDARVILLE — The Great Lakes Boat Building School has rebranded as Marine Trades Institute amid efforts on the growth and expansion of educational programs training the next generation of marine workers.
The Marine Trades Institute is restructuring its programs to enhance its educational offerings and grow its audience to better reach those seeking careers and training in the marine industry.
To achieve these goals, the Institute will transition its current programs into two distinct schools. The Boat Building School will house the school’s flagship Comprehensive Career Boat Building Program, and any future wooden or specialized boat building programs.
The Marine Technology School will house the Marine Service Technology Program and future certifications in areas like marine electronics.
This restructuring aims to empower each school to independently grow and adapt its programs, informing students of the opportunities with marine careers.
“We’re proud of our history and the incredible legacy of the Great Lakes Boat Building School, which has shaped so many careers,” President of Marine Trades Institute Nikki Storey said. “As we expand, the new name helps us reach those looking to become skilled in marine trades while allowing us to embrace a wider audience and continue to grow our programming and impact. We remain steadfast to our founding principles of craftsmanship and hands-on training, which have cemented GLBBS as a respected institution in the Great Lakes region.”
The decision to rebrand was carefully considered by GLBBS leadership and deemed necessary to the school’s long-term success. By restructuring the Boat Building School and Marine Technology School under the broader Marine Trades Institute name, it will enable the organization to better compete for federal funding and open doors to new training opportunities for future students.
The new name better aligns with the school’s impact as its alumni contribute to the marine industry across the country and students come from all across the United States and Canada.
“We’re excited about the future,” Chairman of the Board Joe Reid said. “This rebrand represents both evolution and continuity—bringing fresh opportunities to the school and providing new opportunities to those looking at the skilled trades as a career opportunity, all while staying true to the values that have made us who we are.”
The Institute offers programs in boat building, marine technology, and other specialized certifications. The Institute is focused on developing the expertise needed to meet the growing demand for qualified workers in the marine trades. The Institute provides hands-on education and industry connections that open doors to rewarding careers on and around the water.
Marine Trades Institute is a non-profit organization recognized as a charitable organization and is accredited by the Accrediting Commission of Career Schools and Colleges. The Institute is recognized as a Silver Star Veteran Friendly School for the 2024-25 school year.
For more information on the Marine Trades Institute and its programs, click here.