Those interested in working on large sea-going vessels should look into a marine diesel mechanics program that prepares students for a career in the operation and maintenance of diesel engines and auxiliary equipment found on marine vessels and offshore drilling rigs. Meadus says graduates can work in the shore-based marine industry as technicians, but also have the option of obtaining employment at sea. That's where the money is. Some programs lay the groundwork for students to rise to more advanced technical positions in the industry, such as marine engineers. Memorial is one school that gives its students this option.
Students graduate with the equivalent of nine months of sea time.
If they continue to work offshore and accumulate 24 months, they can write the Ministry of Transportation test for their fourth-class sea marine engineer ticket. It's also good for people who are mechanically inclined, but don't consider themselves to have very strong academic skills. Erickson says a high school engine repair course will provide students with some practice working on motors, but it's not necessary for most programs. Expenses, besides tuition and board, vary from school to school. Most Canadian schools provide tools, but McIntyre says students should consider saving for a starter kit, which they'll need upon graduation.