Economic Impact of Recreational Boating and Non-Commercial Fishing Recreational boating, sailing, cruising, non-commercial fishing and related activities contribute over $2.75 billion in retail sales and over $600 million in payroll supporting greater than 13,000 jobs in more than 400 businesses to Connecticut’s economy (Connecticut Economic Resource Center).  On a national scale, boating, sailing and non-commercial fishing contribute more than $250 billion to the nation’s economy including nearly two million boat building, selling, servicing and marina operations-type jobs which generate over $10 billion in state and federal tax

revenues (Recreational Boating & Fishing Foundation).  Recreational anglers spend over $45 billion each year (U.S. Census Bureau), catch more than 450 million lbs of fish annually and retain over 270 million lbs for personal consumption (U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service).

 

Shortfall in the Supply of Skilled Workers

The Federal Bureau of Labor Statistics projects an increased demand for marine engine mechanics of 18.5% by 2010 and similarly rising demand is expected by the Connecticut Maritime Coalition for all types of marina and boatyard workers.  With an average age between 48 and 58, wholesale retirements from this workforce are expected to accelerate by 2010 as well, compounding an already acute shortage.  The Connecticut Marine Trades Association estimates that more than 100 newly trained workers are needed each year to replace retiring workers or those leaving the industry, a problem made even worse by the lack of an integrated listing of marina, boatyard and marine industry-related jobs.   Further, the American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) identifies this worsening trained labor shortage as a nationwide problem with women and minorities particularly under-represented.  This proposal seeks to develop a community college-based regional education network solution first for Connecticut, then for outreach to the northeastern seaboard states and beyond.