The Marine Trade Institute was started in 2005…
under the name “Great Lakes Boat Building School.” The school is located in Michigan’s Eastern Upper Peninsula in the Les Cheneaux Islands, a place that is one of the wooden boat capitals in the nation. Local wooden boat enthusiasts were in search of a way to keep the tradition and skills of wooden boat building alive, thus beginning a trade school which focused solely on wooden boats. In 2006, a 12,000 square foot facility was built and the first student enrolled that fall.
Between 2006 and 2018, the school’s supporters and staff continued to grow the dream of the school, looking to expand programming opportunities for students. 2018 marked a huge milestone in the school’s history, with Great Lakes Boat Building School becoming an accredited trade school through the Accrediting Council for Career Schools and Colleges (ACCSC). Great Lakes Boat Building School was the only accredited boat building school in the state of Michigan.
A Program Advisory Board (PAB), made up of marine industry leaders, educators, and supporters, was created to help develop relevant industry-related training for students. The wooden boat building program was modified to meet industry needs, becoming the 12-Month Comprehensive Career Boat Building Program. The PAB also identified a need for marine mechanics and technicians. This expressed need created the 12-Month Marine Service Technology Program in 2020.
As the school continued to grow, the Great Lakes Boat Building School Board of Directors and staff wanted to find a way to connect the school with anyone interested in entering the trades, specifically the marine trades. In 2024, the Board voted to change the name from “Great Lakes Boat Building School” to “Marine Trades Institute.” This name better represented the school today and allowed for the opportunity to continue expanding in programming and training opportunities.
Help Shape the Future of Marine Trades
Your support can help us continue our legacy of excellence in marine trades education. Every contribution helps us train the next generation of skilled marine professionals and preserve these vital trades for years to come.
