To learn more about RRC’s Marine and Powersports Technician program, attend our online information session on Wednesday, July 8, at 1pm. Visit our events calendar to register and see all upcoming program information sessions.
It’s been around for close to 25 years, but there’s nothing stagnant about RRC’s Marine and Powersports Technician program. In fact, armed with a new name and improved flexibility thanks to course-based registration, the program is ready to make waves in Manitoba’s thriving marine and powersports industry.
The one-year certificate was previously known as the Outdoor Power Technician Program, but the new name leaves no doubt what exactly the program will cover: fast and furious marine and powersports vehicles and equipment such as motorcycles, snowmobiles, ATVs (all-terrain vehicles), personal watercraft, and more.
“We get the industry the technicians they need, and get the students the experience they need,” says instructor Dustin Blackwell.
The name isn’t the only change. The new and improved program now gets students out of school and into industry two months earlier — exactly when many dealerships and companies are looking to hire.
“Industry couldn’t wait for students to graduate,” says Blackwell. “We had dealerships who were ready to hire by April, but by the time students had graduated in June, jobs were filled.”
While the program will now end earlier, students can expect to receive the same high-quality instruction to prepare them for their future. Along with hands-on training, students strengthen their power skills through 45 hours of sciences, math and communications — developing communications skills and strategies that will benefit them in customer service situations that often go hand-in-hand with their careers.
“There’s lots of opportunity across the program,” says Blackwell, noting grads find work in a variety of areas, including dealerships, construction companies, marinas, outfitter camps, golf courses, government agencies and standalone repair facilities.
“We’re here to get these students jobs. Through the Work Experience Elective, students will get valuable workplace exposure in a marine and powersports business — like dealerships or fishing lodges,” he says, adding that many students often bring in their own gear to work on, using the skills they’ve learned and the equipment available in the Vehicle Technology & Research Centre. Read More →
