In the heart of the Caribbean, a spark of innovation is igniting a new wave of opportunity for young men and women eager to dive into the marine industry. Future Job Skills of Tomorrow Inc. (FJSOT) has just launched an ambitious pre-apprenticeship on-the-job training (OJT) initiative, setting the stage for a future where local talent can thrive in the maritime sector. This isn’t just another training program; it’s a bold step towards reimagining marine education and workforce development.
At the helm of this initiative is Reuben Fenton, FJSOT’s President, who is steering the ship with a clear vision. “Our fundamentals of boating mark the beginning of a new era of career development for future marine professionals,” Fenton declared. This program, nestled within the St. Croix Marine Center facility, is a testament to Fenton’s forward-thinking approach, collaborating with the American Boat & Yacht Council to develop a unique curriculum tailored to the needs of the modern maritime industry.
But let’s not forget the unsung hero behind the scenes. Eleanor Johannes, FJSOT’s Financial Manager, played a pivotal role in securing the necessary funding. Her grant-writing prowess was instrumental in obtaining a grant from the U.S. Department of Interior, making this federally funded program a reality. Johannes’ efforts underscore the importance of financial acumen in driving educational initiatives forward.
The program kicked off with its first group of trainees on March 10, 2025, at the Gallows Bay marina. Once a bustling hub for fishermen and recreational boaters, Gallows Bay is now the main port for the Town of Christiansted and the St. Croix Marine Center facility. Chris Hanley, owner of the marine facility, saw the potential immediately. “When I was approached by Mr. Fenton to collaborate in the creation of an OJT program, it was a no-brainer,” Hanley said. “This is a promising solution and offers our young people an opportunity to find a lasting and prosperous career in an industry they are surrounded by.”
The “Marine Service Technology” training program is designed to be comprehensive, covering everything from environmental sustainability to workplace safety. Trainees will dive deep into boating and OSHA regulatory requirements, safety procedures, CPR, first aid, and fire safety. They’ll also get hands-on experience with marine engines, propulsion systems, electrical systems, and plumbing, ensuring they have a solid core skill set that makes them employable in the marine industry.
Senator Hubert Frederick, an early supporter of FJSOT, is thrilled about the program’s potential. “This opportunity to work in the marine industry can pave a bright future for them in terms of job security and stability,” Frederick said. Thanks to the Department of Interior and local sponsors, trainees who might have faced financial barriers to skill training now have the chance to receive comprehensive classroom and OJT training at a fully subsidized cost.
The inaugural class of five male and female trainees will run through October 20, 2025. This eight-month program is designed to foster an environment of empowerment and professional growth, providing an exciting ‘Live, Work & Learn’ experience. FJSOT’s Affiliated School training status with the ABYC ensures that every student, regardless of background, receives the support needed to thrive in the maritime sector.
Fenton isn’t stopping here. He plans to continue building industry partnerships and seeking funding opportunities, both federally and locally, to ensure access to high-quality workforce training in the Blue Economy. The marine industry is a key part of the Vision 2040 strategy to diversify the U.S. Virgin Islands’ economy, a vision that Governor Albert Bryan has been promoting. In his recent 2025 Seatrade release, Bryan emphasized the importance of creating jobs in the marine sector.
This initiative is more than just a training program; it’s a beacon of hope for the future of the marine industry in the U.S. Virgin Islands. It challenges the norm by providing a practical, hands-on learning experience that prepares trainees for real-world challenges. It sparks debate by asking, “How can we better integrate education and industry to create a sustainable workforce?” And it shapes future developments by setting a precedent for innovative, community-driven training programs.
So, what’s next? As the inaugural class of trainees embarks on their journey, the eyes of the maritime industry will be watching. Will this program become a blueprint for similar initiatives in other regions? Will it inspire more collaboration between educational institutions and industry leaders? Only time will tell, but one thing is for sure: the future of marine education is looking brighter than ever.
