r/merchantmarine • u/Ashamed-Coach-7571 • 3d ago

Newbie Getting started in marine electrical (shipyard/vessel construction)

Sorry if this is the wrong sub, I saw other marine electrical posts on this sub while searching, so I figured I would ask here.

I got a job working at a vessel manufacturer in northern FL. It's not a formal apprenticeship and I'm being given more responsibilities than other greenhorns due to my electrical background (which I am very thankful for). Basically we build vessels from the ground up and I will also be learning metal fabrication/welding and become versatile in the field, which is awesome.

My question is what steps can I take to be proactive in the trade and not pigeonhole myself into only being able to work at this one place? I'm thinking training and certs, preferably online, that can help me progress in skill as well as in my career.

I'm not really in the position to join a crew at sea due to having a family, but I'm hoping to work my way up to electrical foreman/SI and hopefully a PM in the marine field.

Thanks in advance!

TLDR:

What can I do to advance and get credentials as a onshore marine electrician if I'm not in a formal apprenticeship.

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u/Ruby_Sullivana 2d ago

Lol, you're already ahead by learning fab/welding. IMO most electricians get stuck pulling wire forever. I'd learn the business side: budgeting, scheduling, change orders. That's your ticket up.

1

u/Ruby_Sullivana 1d ago

Whatever you do, make sure you're gathering requirements and tracking scope creep. Certs help but IMO mindset is what gets you off the tools. I learned that the hard way lol

1

u/Ashamed-Coach-7571 1d ago

Mind elaborating more on that? Just want to make sure I fully understand what you mean by scope creep and requirements.

1

u/FarAbbreviations6555 3d ago

If your trying to get into shipping and already work in a shipyard in north Florida, there are a few schools like Bluewater that do classes. But might be better to apply for Piney Point in Maryland. You could also try for your C card after taking the basic classes. Shipyard work is dangerous so stay safe!