Are you ready to dive into the world of marine or industrial composites, but not quite sure where to start? We’re excited to announce that our highly practical Pre-Trade courses are kicking off in late April 2025, with the next intake following in July 2025. These campus-based and workshop-based micro-credentials provide an immersive pathway for learners who want a taste of the industry, gain hands-on experience, and eventually transition into apprenticeships.
Why Take a Pre-Trade Course?
Real Industry Insight
Our Pre-Trade courses are designed for school leavers, aspiring tradespeople, and newcomers to the marine and composites industries. Facilitated by experienced, ex-tradie tutors, each course offers a blend of theory and hands-on training, ensuring you’re learning directly from professionals who have been in the field. Our facilitators are well-connected in the industry, paving a clear path to employment.
Micro-Credential Qualifications
All our Pre-Trade courses carry NZQA-approved micro-credentials, recognised by employers and industry leaders. Completing one of these courses can be your stepping stone toward a full apprenticeship in your chosen trade.
Practical & Engaging
The courses are workshop-focused, meaning you’ll spend significant time practicing the skills you learn. From power tool handling to composite lamination, you’ll gain the kind of real-world skills that employers value.
Explore Our Pre-Trade Course Options
MAST Academy offers three targeted Pre-Trade courses to suit different interests and career goals:
A Taste of Marine Trades
This introductory course is perfect for school leavers and those new to the marine industry. It provides foundational knowledge and hands-on skills, paving the way for a full marine apprenticeship. Topics covered include:
Composite technologies
Timber and alloys in boat building
Power tool use and maintenance
Adhesives in boat construction
Marine systems – dismantling, inspecting, and testing components
Operating simple mechanical plant or equipment
Intro to Boat Building
Interested in boat building? This course introduces you to the fundamental skills needed to work in the boat building industry, leading to a boat building apprenticeship. You'll gain experience in:
Hand tool care and usage
Power tools and mechanical plant operations
Marine health and safety standards
Boat building techniques for timber, alloy, and composites
Teamwork in a workshop environment
Intro to Composites
This course is ideal for those looking to enter the growing composites industry, with a focus on marine applications. It provides key skills required for a composites apprenticeship, including:
Hand and power tool use
Workplace health and safety
Employment expectations in the composites industry
Measurement and calculations for composite work
Preparing and laminating materials
Blending resins
Working collaboratively on a project
Important Dates
Late April 2025: First course intake
July 2025: Second course intake
With two intakes right around the corner, now is the perfect time to secure your spot. Whether you’re looking to explore the marine trades, gain new skills in boat building, or dive into the composites industry, our courses offer an excellent opportunity to get started.
Secure Your Spot Today!
Don’t miss this opportunity to gain industry-recognised skills and kickstart your career in the marine trades. With limited spots available, we encourage you to enrol early to secure your place in our April or July 2025 intakes.
For more details and enrolment information contact the MAST Academy team today. Your journey towards a skilled trade career starts here!