Article Written By: Michelle Conner
If you are mechanically inclined and a boat lover, a career as a marine mechanic might be good for you. A marine mechanic career will combine your love of the boating life with a career that focuses on boat engine repair. You can begin this exciting career by selecting a certificate course for marine engine repair and maintenance or enrolling in an Associate's degree program. Marine mechanics have diverse jobs. Their responsibilities include installing, diagnosing and repairing inboard and outboard engines. Many are employed by boat dealerships, repair shops, boat rental companies. This knowledge and applicable experience can be achieved by completing an Associate's degree in marine and small engine repair, or an industry certification offered by professional organizations.Marine mechanics are required to have a high school diploma or its equivalent - the GED certificate. Most employers in this industry will require, and some even prefer, to hire those with post-secondary training. This training can be obtained by successfully completing an Associate's degree program in marine and small engine repair or completing a related certificate program. These programs will teach students how to identify engine components and how to use tools to repair engine malfunctions.Though preferred by most employers, these workers are not required to be licensed. Some employers prefer their employees hold an industry certification. Several certifications can be obtained through the American Boat and Yacht Counsel (ABYC). The ABYC is also available to facilitate seminars and workshops for marine mechanics through group training sessions that can be held on-site for a school or employer.Marine mechanics may wish to reach for the Certified Master Technician (CMT) certificate. It is awarded to those that have passed three or more certification courses as well as the exams administered by the ABYC. A CMT certificate holder has appropriately demonstrated that he or she is proficient in all areas of mechanical engine repair.It is a great place to obtain the mandatory experience needed to effectively repair small inboard and outboard boat engines. In these programs, graduates learn how to recognize engines that are running correctly smoothly. The program's coursework includes the maintenance of small engines (which includes mechanical, electric and heating and cooling systems) through the use of troubleshooting processes. These degree programs can be completed, as a full time student, in two years.Successful mechanics can apply their extensive knowledge of these engines using tools specifically designed for this work. Their jobs will require them to repair electrical systems and fuel and mechanical systems on a variety of watercraft. One working directly with the public should also exhibit good communication skills that are required when providing customers service.
This Article Has Been Published on Fri, 27 May 2011 and Read 249 Times