Marine Repair Technician

Marine repair students working on motor in the marine repair lab

Marine Repair Technician

Unique in the State

Technical Diploma

42 Credits | 1.5 Years

Financial Aid-Eligible

Ashland

Career Cluster: Transportation, Distribution and Logistics

Turn your love for the water into a career with the Marine Repair Technician program! In just three semesters, you'll gain the hands-on skills to repair marine engines and boat systems, preparing you for an exciting role in the recreational boating industry. With start dates available in the fall and spring, this flexible program fits your schedule and gets you ready to launch your future.

Program Overview

The Marine Repair Technician program is a three-semester training program designed to prepare students for careers in the marina and marine service industry. The curriculum covers a wide range of skills, including marine engine service, propulsion systems, diagnosis, repair, equipment installation, maintenance, and rigging new boats. Students gain hands-on experience working with two- and four-cycle gasoline engines, drive systems, transmissions, electrical systems, and consumer-supplied products. New students are accepted in both the fall and spring semesters, making it easy to start training when it works best for you. Upon completion, graduates will be equipped with the tools and knowledge needed to thrive in the marine repair business.

Program Outcomes

Marine Repair Technician graduates will be able to:

  • Service marine engines
  • Service marine propulsion systems
  • Service diesel engines
  • Demonstrate welding and metalworking skills
  • Demonstrate industry-recognized safety practices

Technical Standards

In this program, students should be able to meet specific technical standards, which are the essential skills and abilities needed to be successful in a program, with or without reasonable accommodation. It is important to review and understand these standards before applying to the program. 

Learn More About Technical Standards for this Program

Student working in the marine repair lab

This is the only program devoted solely to watercraft in Wisconsin. Because it is a three-semester program, you will quickly learn what you need to know to start your career. Start in either the spring or fall at your convenience. 

Students doing hands-on work in the classroom

Hands-on program.

Marine repair student and instructor in lab

Unique in the state of Wisconsin.

A marine repair student working in the marine repair lab

Three-semester program. 


Academics

Marine Repair Technician is available at the Ashland campus and is offered face-to-face.   

Industry Connected

This program is supported by many marine manufacturers and Members of the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) and Wisconsin Marine Association (WMA).

Train on Current Engines

You will have hands-on training with engines equipped with EFI, DFI CanBus and computerized diagnostic systems, as well as complete introductory marine manufacturer courses.

6,000 Square Foot Lab

The Marine Repair program has a large lab with state-of-the-art equipment.  


Required Courses

The program is three semesters long. Following an introductory semester, you will progress to more in depth and complex marine engine and boat system topics.  

Explore the Required Courses

Featured Marine Repair Technician Courses

31461314
|
UGRD
| 5 CR
This course provides an introduction to the marine industry. Students will learn how to work safely in a shop environment and use service tools and information. Students will learn the theory of how two-and four-stroke outboard motors operate. This course will teach students how to repair, maintain, and rebuild two-stroke and four-stroke outboard motors. Also, students will learn about fuel, ignition, manual and electric starting systems, and charging systems. Small gearcase operation and repair are also covered.
31461323
|
UGRD
| 2 CR
Inboard straight shaft transmissions are covered in this course. Velvet Drive transmissions will be the main training project. Hurth and Paragon transmissions will be covered to a lesser degree. Related components such as engine alignment, shafts, couplers, stuffing boxes, struts, strut bearing replacement, etc., will be examined also. PREREQUISITE: 31461314 Outboard Motors.
31461346
|
UGRD
| 5 CR
In this course, students will understand the theory of computer-controlled fuel, ignition, oiling, and control systems used on inboard and outboard engines. Systems included are sterndrive and outboard motor EFI, and outboard direct fuel injection. Students will repair and troubleshoot these systems using a variety of computer diagnostic software. PREREQUISITE: 31461314 Outboard Motors.

Marine Repair Technician is Part of a Career Pathway

As a Marine Repair Technician student at Northwood Tech, you can earn credentials each step of the way!

This certificate is embedded in the Marine Repair Technician program.

Marine Repair Essentials

Pathway Certificate
14 Credits / 1 Semester Full Time
Potential Careers
Outboard Motor Technician, Marine Service Technician, Marine Mechanic, Small Engine Technician, Dock Attendant/Dock Hand, Marine Fuel Dock Attendant
Arrow pointing down

This is the program you’re looking at.

Technical Diploma
42 Credits / 3 Semesters Full Time
Potential Careers
Inboard Engine Technician, Outboard Motor Technician, Boat Rigging Technician, Electronic Equipment Installation Technician, Marine Sales Representative, Marine Service Technician, Marine Service Supervisor
Arrow pointing down

Continue your education to earn this technical certificate.

Continue your education to earn your bachelor's degree.


Admissions and Tuition

Northwood Tech has an easy admission process that can be completed in one visit. Please see the details under the "Requirements and Application" section to get started.

Requirements and Application

Tuition and Fees

Northwood Tech breaks down the cost of education, so you'll have a good idea of how much your education will cost.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to help you pay for your education. It can come in the form of grants, loans, federal work-study, military and veterans benefits, division of vocational rehabilitation benefits, and scholarships. 

Learn More About Paying for College

Cost of Attendance

The Cost of Attendance (COA) is an estimate of the costs that you may incur while attending Northwood Technical College.

Learn More About Cost of Attendance

Estimated Total Program Tuition 2024-25*

Marine Repair Technician 

42 Credits | 1.5 Years

$7,672

Plus $4,350 for tools and supplies


*Tuition is an estimate and does not include any miscellaneous fees for various courses, tools, books, supplies or uniforms. Program book costs are in addition to tuition and fees and vary depending on course selection and where the books are purchased or rented. 


After the Northwood Tech Marine Repair Technician Program

Upon completion of the program, you will earn a Marine Repair Essentials certificate and a Marine Repair Technician technical diploma. 

Student studying at a computer

Transfer Center

Transfer your Northwood Tech credits to a four-year college to earn your bachelor's degree and beyond. 

View Transfer Center

 

Career Outlooks

Northwood Tech's graduates experience success. Learn more about the types of careers you can get after graduation. 

View Career Options

Student studying at laptop

Contact

Choose a campus to view contact information, or for general assistance, please contact us.

Rice Lake Admissions Contact

Nicole Messicci

Admissions Advisor

715.788.7144

Contact

Ashland Admissions Contact

Jennifer Bednarik

Admissions Advisor

715.685.3039

Contact

New Richmond Admissions Contact

Sherry Rehnelt

Admissions Advisor

715.752.8136

Contact

Superior Admissions Contact

Anna Kalin

Admissions Advisor

715.319.7331

Contact

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Are you ready to experience success? Northwood Tech staff are standing by to support you in reaching your educational and career goals, so do it. Take the leap.