PETOSKEY, MI -- If you're interested in building boats or even marine maintenance, North Central Michigan College will offer a one-of-a-kind course in Michigan.

A few details still have to be worked out, but it appears next year, NCMC will give you a chance to earn an associates degree in a nine-month vocational program focused on marine assistance.

In year one, the class will be a composite program and will teach you contemporary boat building skills.

The skills learned will be beneficial for the marine industry as well as other industries.

"The reason we're starting these types of programs is because this is what the industry is looking for and so very employable skills and that's what we're going to be launching with," said David Lesh, founder of the Michigan School of Boat Building and Marine Technology.

In year two of the curriculum, students will learn about specific areas, like fuel systems, propulsions, electrical and electronics.

In fact this summer, in an effort to launch the program and awareness, there will be summer boat-building workshops at Irish Boat Shop.

If you're interested, contact David Lesh at (317)260-1263, e-mail davidlesh@charter.net