Get A Collage Degree In Classic Boat Conservation / Restoration.
Kids these days
Yesterday’s story about students immersed in the art of boatbuilding struck a powerful chord. It wasn’t just inspiring—it illuminated a clear need in our education system: a dedicated, structured path for students passionate about working with their hands. Specifically, we need two- and four-year degree programs focused entirely on boats—their history, design, construction, and restoration.
Off to school
Imagine a degree in boat conservation the way we imagine a degree in art history or industrial design. These programs aren’t just about skill development; they’re about building a deep cultural, historical, and technical understanding of a field. The same can and should be done for maritime craft. This isn’t a fantasy. It’s a necessary evolution in how we nurture trades and preserve traditional knowledge.
You may want to not drink too much at this school. Hangovers would be a bitch
A two-year degree, in particular, offers something powerful: a fast, focused, and affordable entry point into a rich and essential craft. Not every student is suited for a traditional four-year academic track. For some, the thought of spending years in lecture halls is stifling. But give them a shop, tools, mentorship, and a meaningful purpose—suddenly they thrive.
Yes Darla, Bob is getting his PHD in boat conservation. He is doing his thesis on bung holes.
These students aren’t just learning to conserve boats. They’re studying materials, history, physics, design, and sustainability. They’re connecting to a legacy that spans centuries. And in doing so, they’re preserving something far more important than just technique—they’re preserving a culture.
Hands on!
As someone with a fine arts degree, I know firsthand how valuable an immersive, hands-on education can be. I studied color theory, art history, and worked alongside fellow artists. I learned not just how to make art, but how to live a life rooted in creativity. Now imagine that same opportunity for a young person drawn not to painting or sculpture, but to the shaping of hulls and rigging, to the sniff of varnish and the rhythm of craftsmanship.
There is a difference when you understand the history and texture of something
We need to stop thinking of boats as utilitarian objects to be used and discarded. Around the world, boats are cultural artifacts—worthy of museums, galleries, and deep study. And right now, in communities across the country, we have skilled individuals with the knowledge to teach it all. Not just the trade, but the art of conservation / restoration. What we lack is a place—and a system—to bring it all together.
The Art of classic boating
A two-year degree in boat restoration would not only preserve this craft but also open doors for countless students who crave meaningful, hands-on work. Let’s give them that opportunity. We can’t just say we need more young people and not give them the tools and education to succeed. Let’s expand the schools that honor the craft and the students ready to carry it forward. THIS IS THE SOLUTION to move our passion into the next chapter.
Reedville College!
HA, I am realizing I am at the age of telling people what to do, but not actually be able to do it myself.
Professor Smith – today’s surmon was well written and astonished me. No joking around on this subject! Two years ago I wanted ACHS maritime museum to offer a technical seminar on propeller technology, with the emergence of Sharrow Marine and YouTubers posting new propeller designs. I wanted to offer the seminar as a fundraiser for the ACHS. I attempted to get University Michigans Navel school to give a history lecture, Sharrow Marine to lecture on their design, and a workshop on how to optimize one’s own boat for propeller propulsion. Unfortunately, the whole idea fell on deaf ears.
YA, thanks, I had to actually proof read it, rewrite it and clean it up. It seemed important to make sure this one was crafted well. Version, well, it’s crafted. HA.
Take a look at Cape Fear Community College in Wilmington, NC. They offer degree programs in wooden boat building, etc. It would not take much to get some guest lecturers in there from the classic boat world to round out the program to include classic boat history and restoration. I have worked with many students and grads out of Cape Fear in the Marine Technology realm over the years and have always been impressed. I seem to remember that the Piedmont chapter has done some programs there.
Cape Fear CC is one of the 6 schools ACBS supports with annual scholarships.
Hessel/Cedarville is doing it.
Maybe Professor Bjorn would have some good input.
Professor Bjorn’s class project was building this fine piece of craftsmanship.
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Several yeas ago while in Bar Harbor Maine. My wife and I went to a craft show at the local High School. While my wife looked ay crafts, I wandered around the building. When I got to the Wood Shop. I was both surprised and pleased . The students were building a 14′ lapstreak row boat in class. It looked very nice. Brock, I have seen the Great Lakes Boat building school in Cederville Mi. It is a great facility. Not all kids sit around and play video games.
Check out IYRS in Newport RI. My son graduated there and loved it.
Great thoughts – and not too serious. The bung hole gag made me gag.
Both of my grandsons, both 24 and three weeks apart, are doing quite well for themselves. One in HVAC and the other in home repairs, remodels, and builds. Both graduated from high school nether went to college, and best of all, nether have any college debt and already making more than most college graduates.
I’m in the middle of remodeling my boat shed to include my car collection and they have both been a great help. To say I’m a happy grandpa is an understatement. Watching the two of them work with there hands and minds and not requiring a four year degree shows that there is way to much emphasis put on going to college.
Is there really enough demand for it would be my first question to a son who might be looking to make a living at this hobby? Especially as an employee for someone. And not to be negative, but alot of these skills, when it comes to the carpentry and joinery part of building and resto, is something that can’t be taught or even acquired by anyone, no matter how much time they put into it.