South Florida Local News
Broward County Public Schools expands partnership with National Marine Electronics Association to provide more training and certification opportunities for students pursuing marine electronics careers
Broward County, Florida – Broward County Public Schools (BCPS) has taken a major step toward strengthening the local marine electronics workforce by expanding its partnership with the National Marine Electronics Association (NMEA). The School Board recently approved $100,000 in funding to enhance training and industry certification opportunities for students at McFatter Technical College who are pursuing careers in marine electronics.
This partnership will allow McFatter Technical College to offer an expanded marine electronics technician curriculum along with NMEA certification testing for postsecondary students. These certifications are highly valued in the marine industry, which is especially vibrant in Florida’s coastal hubs, including Fort Lauderdale, Stuart, and Pompano Beach. Career options for graduates range from marine electronic installers and technicians to technical support managers and sales representatives, with starting salaries typically between $45,000 and $85,000.
“We are grateful for the support of our School Board and NMEA toward expanding this important career field, reflecting our commitment to preparing students with real-world skills that align with industry demand,” said Broward County Public Schools Superintendent Dr. Howard Hepburn. “By equipping students with NMEA certifications and hands-on training, we are opening doors to high-wage, high-demand careers in the marine industry.”
The Marine Service Technologies program at McFatter Technical College forms the backbone of this initiative, providing students with the technical skills required to succeed in the boating industry. The program covers a wide range of practical competencies, including diagnosing, repairing, and maintaining boats up to 50 feet, as well as working with outboard engines. Students gain expertise in marine rigging, fuel injection principles, stern drives, electronics installation, and inboard engines.
The expanded curriculum and certification opportunities not only prepare students for immediate employment but also align with industry standards, ensuring that graduates are ready to meet the needs of Florida’s booming marine sector. Employers in the area often struggle to find skilled technicians, making this partnership particularly timely. By combining classroom instruction with hands-on experience and professional certification, McFatter Technical College aims to produce graduates who can step into high-demand roles with confidence.
For students considering a career in the marine industry, the program offers a clear pathway to employment, while the partnership with NMEA underscores BCPS’s broader commitment to workforce development and career readiness. This initiative also reflects the district’s dedication to preparing students for postsecondary success in fields that combine technical skill, industry knowledge, and practical experience.
For more information about the Marine Service Technologies program at McFatter Technical College, visit mcfattertechnicalcollege.edu/marine-service-technologies.
With Florida’s marine economy continuing to expand, initiatives like this partnership are critical for building a skilled workforce capable of supporting the boating and marine electronics industries. BCPS and NMEA’s collaboration not only creates opportunities for students but also strengthens the regional economy by ensuring a steady pipeline of trained professionals ready to meet growing demand.
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