MMTA Lands State Funding for Workforce Development

Governor Maura Healey signed the 2024 state budget, which included $150,000 in funding for workforce development and career technical education initiatives within the recreational boating industry.  This funding will continue the successful initiatives and progress that the Massachusetts Marine Trades Association (MMTA) has made over the last five plus years to help meet the workforce challenges within the industry.

The funds were introduced via Budget Amendments sponsored in the House by Representative William Straus of the 10th Bristol District and in the Senate by Senator Patrick O’Connor of the Plymouth & Norfolk District, joined in leadership by Representative Susan Gifford and Senator Paul Feeney, the four Co-Chairs of the 60-plus member Legislative Boating Caucus.

Some examples of how funding will be used include:

• Support existing and new educational programs at various schools throughout the state;
• Provide financial assistance for employee training;
• Provide financial assistance for Tools of the Trade Funding. This program provides $300 gift cards to Snap-On Tools for new or existing employees to help build their toolboxes to help in their current positions within the industry here in Massachusetts;
• Continue marketing outreach and development to connect current and future workers with available jobs, such as through www.massboatingcareers.com and MMTA’s workforce videos.

The recreational boating industry in Massachusetts has an economic impact of approximately $5 billion dollars and employs approximately 20,000 men and women in the state. The industry is facing a substantial workforce shortage both in Massachusetts and on a national level. In Massachusetts, there are hundreds—if not thousands—of jobs available. This amendment will go a long way in continuing to help MMTA’s efforts on workforce solutions here in Massachusetts.