CFCC student finds long term career with short term training program
After stepping back from a nursing career to raise her young family, Amanda Kurtz considered a career change. Until she knew what career to pursue, she decided to learn how to maintain the outboard motor on her family’s boat.
Developing an Interest
While searching for a boat maintenance course that would work with her busy mom schedule, Amanda discovered CFCC’s Outboard Systems Technology program. The twelve-week Intro to Outboard Systems course was the perfect start for a boating pastime.
The introductory course begins with the basics of boat components and advances to motor operation, maintenance, and rigging. Outboard Systems Technology Program Director Spencer Nickel keeps the coursework balanced between classroom and workshop time and applicable to all skill levels.
Never Stop Learning
Although Amanda knew her way around a toolbox, that experience was not a requirement to enroll in the Intro to Outboard Systems course. In Amanda’s classes, students ranged from beginners just starting their marine careers to current mechanics wanting to enhance their skill set.
Amanda found the introductory course interesting and enrolled in the second module, Midrange Marine Maintenance. Amanda realized she would enjoy doing this for a living during this course.
“While I was in the Midrange course, I discovered that the third module, Inline Marine Maintenance, would be available in the spring semester,” Amanda shared. “I thought that if I’m going to make a career change, more training will help.”
From Hobby to Occupation
Until the spring semester starts, Amanda is reviewing job opportunities and updating her resume. She considers Nickel’s advice to all his students about where to apply, how to go about it, and tips to ensure it’s a good place to work.
“Amanda walked into the Outboard Systems program, interested in understanding her outboard. She will be walking out with a career,” Nickel commented. “Her aptitude, attention to detail, and passion for the product and science of how it works propelled her into the advanced classes. She has expanded and improved her skill set, making her a great asset to a future employer.”
In-Demand Career
The job outlook for outboard technicians is in demand. According to Bureau of Labor Statistics, bls.gov, the job growth outlook for motorboat mechanics and service technicians is projected to be 5% or about 9,000 openings over the next decade.
