Summary
Guam Community College and Cabras Marine Corporation have launched their second Ship Repair Transportation Boot Camp, welcoming 20 participants and three alternates who will receive training in essential trades such as carpentry, electrical work, welding, plumbing, and painting/blasting. This boot camp, which is fully funded by a federal Career and Technical Education grant, aims to prepare participants for an apprenticeship program with Cabras Marine upon successful completion of their training.
The initiative addresses the critical shortage of skilled labor in Guam's ship repair industry, which has struggled since the closure of the Ship Repair Facility at Naval Base Guam in 1997. By selecting and training local candidates, GCC and Cabras Marine are working to ensure that these vital services remain in the region, supporting both military and commercial vessel repair needs.
Why this matters for apprenticeships
This program exemplifies the value of registered apprenticeships as a pathway to stable careers in high-demand trades. By investing in local talent through structured training and certification, initiatives like the Ship Repair Transportation Boot Camp help to build a skilled workforce while addressing industry shortages.