ABBRA Seminars IBEX September 19-21

Join ABBRA at the International Boatbuilders’ Exhibition and Conference September 19-21 at the Tampa Convention Center in Tampa, FL for informative and vital training and education sessions covering a variety of boat building and management topics. Be sure to also stop by our booth to say hello and catch up on the latest ABBRA news and growth!

108: LEADING A MULTIGENERATIONAL WORKFORCE 

Room: 10 Seminar Number: 108

Tuesday, September 19, 2017: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

For the first time in modern history, workplace demographics now span four generations, meaning that 20-year-old new hires find themselves working side-by-side with colleagues who are older than they are by 50 years. This kind of a shift impacts corporate culture since priorities, attitudes, and work styles differ with each generation. Join us to look at the challenges and the benefits of your multigenerational workforce and how an “age-neutral” workplace supports communication and understanding across all ages while building on the unique values and strengths of each generation. Businesses that pay attention to intergenerational issues see a positive impact on their bottom lines in a number of areas, such as recruitment and retention, employee productivity, customer service, and company culture.

Speakers: Pamela Lendzion and Shirley Adams

204: PRODUCTION VARNISH: OVERCOMING THE CHALLENGES

Room: 7/8 Seminar Number: 204

Tuesday, September 19, 2017: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

It can be a challenge to produce a consistent, high-quality, long-lasting interior or exterior varnish finish in a production setting. In this seminar, Kirk Ritter will use his 26 years of experience to explore different products (traditional, two-part, non-sanding, or modified varnishes, and epoxy) and techniques (brush, roll, spray, and buffing varnish) to save time, achieve quality, and establish a process. We will discuss challenges such as dust control, drying times, achieving mill thickness, the “final coat,” longevity, and any questions you may have. Whether you are a small boat builder, a factory producing many boats, or even a service yard, you will take away many helpful tips that you will be able to implement in your facility.

Speakers: Joy Elvin and Kirk Ritter

306: APPRENTICESHIP PROGRAMS & WORKFORCE DEVELOPMENT

Room: 10 Seminar Number: 306

Wednesday, September 20, 2017: 8:30 AM – 10:00 AM

For several years, a group of marine industry leaders has been working with the New Zealand Marine Industry Association to develop and register a post-secondary earn-and-learn model of education with the US Office of Apprenticeship. Once registered, this program will provide an apprenticeship training standard and curriculum for competency-based, on-the-job skills training. The program provides support for employers, mentors, and trainers. It includes a train-the-trainer class as well as support and guidance for mentors. User-friendly assessment tools have been developed to track the apprentice’s progress.  After completing the program, the apprentice will earn a nationally recognized credential from the US Department of Labor and Training. Join this interactive seminar to discuss the return on investment and employer support required to make the program work.

409: HYDRAULIC TRAILER SAFETY TRAINING

Room: 10 Seminar Number: 409

Wednesday, September 20, 2017: 12:30 PM – 2:00 PM

Moving boats safely whether hauling, launching, trailering, or for tie-down requires that boatyard and marina managers and operators understand and adhere to several important standard operating procedures, OSHA guidelines, FMCSA regulations, and boat manufacturer recommended procedures, in addition to any local or state regulations that must be followed. This seminar is intended for anyone who ever assumes the responsibility of moving a boat from the water to the hard for marine service or repair. It will provide attendees valuable information that enables them to avoid critical errors that can be both physically and financially costly. Industry best management practices will be outlined with key examples of the “Don’ts” of moving boats juxtaposed and highlighted. Attendees will have a greater appreciation for the practice of preparation and procedures for moving boats.

Speakers: Jopie Helson, Salvatore Gugliara, and Joy Elvin

509: STRADDLELIFT TRAINING

Room: 13 Seminar Number: 509

Wednesday, September 20, 2017: 3:30 PM – 5:00 PM

Speakers: Joy Elvin and Robert Smith