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