Marine Mechanics Institute

[orchy]

Currently, I am filling out all of my University, College and other School applications for the 2007 year, and was just curious as to anyone else who is applying, attending or has attended the UTI Marine Mechanics Institute in Orlando, Florida? Also on that note, has anyone attended another Marine School? I am just throwing some ideas for school around and would enjoy any input at all.

thanks,
Dan Orchard #97

[Howie Nichols]

Bring the 45 with you when you come!! We race the 45's and other OPC classes at 90% of all the club races down here. I believe several people have attended MMI that are on this board, good luck and let us know if you need help when you get into the area.

[orchy]

It isn't a for sure at all yet, i just started the appication process. I searched all around on Mercury's web pages but couldn't find any sort of programs similar to UTI's? I know of some people who went through one of their programs though, i was just curious to find some people who had formal mechanical marine training, and where they went for it. Though the sun would certainly be welcomed from this cold Ontario weather.
Dan 97

[mercguy]

It isn't a for sure at all yet, i just started the appication process. I searched all around on Mercury's web pages but couldn't find any sort of programs similar to UTI's? I know of some people who went through one of their programs though, i was just curious to find some people who had formal mechanical marine training, and where they went for it. Though the sun would certainly be welcomed from this cold Ontario weather.
Dan 97

Dan, the formal training you are talking about is conducted by the manufacturers themselves (i.e. Mercury Marine, Bombardier (OMC), Yamaha, etc) To go to these schools, you must work for a dealership or somehow get sponsored. Mercury's schooling is much more entailed nowadays, not as simple as it used to be.........

there is also an Inaugural Marine Certification and Technical Workshop being held Jan 18-21, 2007 at the 14th Annual National Marine Service Expo in Orlando, FL that will be conducting classes and workshops, of which Mercury Marine is sponsoring a few classes. It would be an EXCELLANT choice for someone wanting to get into the Marine industry........

[N80250cch]

MMI schooling

I attended mmi in orlando in the year of 2001. mmi is a great school for basic and advanced training. They offer a merctech program that was really good also. If you already have a good knowledge of how each system of an
engine works, wiring, networking, and basic marine electronics then you might be to advanced for the mojority of what is taught there. I myself found the critiria very easy. although I did learn alot there and found it well worth it. The housing is nice. They put you in nice appartments with 3 other guys. so it keeps the cost down. If you think that mmi would be to basic then I would suggest going to work for a marina that will certify you. Most all good dealerships will send you to dealer traning and will pay you to go. your best bet is to find a marina that has several lines and is a good service center with experienced techs. Because 80% of you will know is going to be taught to you from co-workers. good luck If you need anything eles let me know.
Fran Johnson
Honeoye, NY

[Fast Jack]

Schools in NH

There is a 2 year program at the New Hampshire Tech inst. in Laconia Nh. They also hold Mercury service schools, Merc gives them all the latest stuff, we killed a Verado before they were on the market! I know that MMI is always looking for instructors, you might want to see if they have a fast turn over in staff, and if so why.

[Bill Huson]

as others mentioned . . .

If a marine dealer likes your work ethic and sees promise in your skill they will send you to factory schools and pay the tab. Many moons ago I investigated the partner school to MMI which specialized in motorcycle repair. The cost was about 10 grand plus living expenses in Florida for a whole year! End result would be like a college grad who's entry level income can barely support one person and they're in debt from tuition up to their eyeballs.

Making your mechanic bones at a dealer may take longer than a year, but the experiance you gain will be valuable, and you'll be getting a paycheck!

[orchy]

Thanks everyone, i was flipping through channels on the TV the other night and saw an infomercial for UTI and their schools...makes you think. I just wish Mercury had a program set up where i could get a job directly with them! I think Lake X is calling my name

thanks to all,
Dan Orchard 97

[mercguy]

Thanks everyone, i was flipping through channels on the TV the other night and saw an infomercial for UTI and their schools...makes you think. I just wish Mercury had a program set up where i could get a job directly with them! I think Lake X is calling my name

thanks to all,
Dan Orchard 97

I do not think working for Mercury is as glamorous as most think! Times have changed and so have these big corporations. Plus, I doubt one would make much money at all starting with Mercury Marine. Much better opportunity working for a dealer. There are lots of jobs available in the Marine Industry for "good" quality technicians, but be warned the turn-over rate is pretty high...........it is alot differnet than an automotive tech position, as you have to know how to fix EVERYTHING that is boat related, including motor, drive, electrical, ignition, electronics, upholestory, ac/heating, etc, etc, etc.........but, it can be a very fun job........AT TIMES!

PS: by the way, we are UNDERPAYED also!

[Jeff Akers]

PS: by the way, we are UNDERPAYED also!

I'll second that !