Great Lakes Boat Building School

“It blew my mind to see the skills a couple students brought to my business after only one year at the school. I immediately hired them both, full-time.” Brad Koster, owner Mertaugh Boat Works

“The instructors’ enthusiasm to hand off their knowledge and experience was quickly matched by the eagerness of the job market to accept me the same week I graduated.” Preston Johnston, Class of 2011

“Attending GLBBS allowed me to develop the necessary skills. Started working the Monday after graduation.” Geoffrey Hamilton, Class of 2011

“GLBBS provides a high quality of education in wooden boat building, demonstrating superior craftsmanship.” Thomas M. Mertaugh, owner Classic and Antique Boats, Ltd.

“I was offered an apprenticeship at Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum prior to graduating. My education and training at GLBBS were an excellent foundation for working on historic, large boats. The smaller class size and highly personal instruction have proven to be great advantages.” Bud McIntire, Class of 2011

“Excellent instruction fosters excellent students and GLBBS delivers on both, graduating the kind of students we look to hire.” Steve Van Dam, Van Dam Boats

"GLBBS taught me the necessary hand-tool skills and traditional boat building fundamentals for me to feel confident in starting a small boatshop of my own." Kevin Pagliuca, Class of 2011

"I knew that it would be helpful to work under a master boat builder, but the advice and attention that Pat gave us made all the difference in the world. The GLBBS facilities and location were terrific. Mostly, we had fun." Dan Mecoli - Summer Workshop 2011

Hello! I was just browsing the website and was amazed at the work that has been done there in the past couple of years. I was also reminded of many good memories from my time at the school. I hope that everyone is doing well and that next year is a good one. Thanks to all for a truly unique experience.  Owen Gibby - Class of 2010.

"My experience at GLBBS was wonderful, definitely the highlight of my summer.  In fact, it’s really one of the best life experiences of any kind I can think of, especially since I spent it with my Dad.  I’ll be fondly looking back on it decades from now, telling my grandchildren about it long after my Dad is gone."  Tom Cochrane - Summer Workshops 2012

"I took the full 2-year program and it was outstanding.  I credit GLBBS for my being where I am today, which is working for one of the leading custom boat builders in the world."  Brock Tyner - Class of 2012