There’s something fitting about a group of pre-trade students learning their craft by building stand-up paddleboards. It’s practical, hands-on work – and if all goes to plan, the end result floats.

It begins, as it always has, with a set of lines drawings and some good quality timber, finely sharpened tools and lots of patience. The deceptively demanding task of shaping a half model is an exercise every boatbuilding apprentice undertakes as part of their MAST training.

Behind the scenes of The Kepler Challenge, held in early December last year, a gruelling 60km running race through Fiordland National Park, is a large crew of volunteers who keep the event running each year, including MAST apprentice Dane Frew from Steve Gooding Marine in Invercargill.

When Bill Cunnington, owner of Motor & Marine, appeared in the doorway, Daniel Kruger laughed. “I knew it – I absolutely knew it! There were only two reasons the meeting was a secret: it was either Bill or the Secret Service.” And just like that, with a handshake, a new apprenticeship journey began.

MAST entered into a strategic partnership with SupaHuman AI in 2025, to develop a purpose-built artificial intelligence solution designed specifically for the needs of New Zealand’s marine, composites and specialised industries. Rather than adopting a generic AI tool, our focus has been on creating a system that understands the structure and requirements of New Zealand Qualifications Authority unit standards and reflects the realities of vocational training and industry pract

A real sense of energy and occasion marked the MAST Academy graduation in March, as a record number of graduates gathered at the Royal New Zealand Yacht Squadron on 4 March 2026. They were supported by proud families, workmates, and the industry partners who helped get them there.

Peter Gamble is carving out a career that takes him from high-spec loft work in Auckland to remote boatyards in Southeast Asia - all while completing a formal apprenticeship through MAST Academy.

At SL Racing, the motto is simple: “Everything we do is focused on getting you first across the line.” It’s a philosophy that applies as much to their high-performance rowing shells as it does to their people - like MAST graduate Adam Vanderpeet, who was awarded the Outstanding Composite Apprentice award at the MAST Academy the 2025 graduation earlier this year.

When Roger Rhodes teachers a MAST Academy lofting class, he brings more than tools, he brings 25+ years of boatbuilding training and a down-to-earth style that makes tricky concepts click. From shaping the first pre-trade courses in Whangārei to today’s lofting blocks, Roger has guided hundreds of apprentices to their “eureka” moment, when lines on paper transform into a three-dimensional boat. For him, it’s all about preparation, patience and the lightbulb moments that shape

From carpentry to boatbuilding, Aimee Dawson has found her dream trade. Blending her love of being hands-on with her passion for boating, she’s thriving as a MAST Academy apprentice at The Boatbuilders. With strong mentorship, plenty of problem-solving, and a culture that feels like family, Aimee’s story shows what’s possible when skills and passion come together.

At Haines Hunter Boats, development runs deep. From apprentices sharpening their skills on the workshop floor to experienced specialists stepping into leadership programmes, every stage of the journey is backed with support and opportunity. In this story, meet Zahn, Noah and Sam, three apprentices building careers across marine interiors, systems and composites and see how Haines Hunter grows talent at every level.

Discover how MAST Academy’s new Westgate campus is building tomorrow’s marine and composites workforce, with hands-on training, industry partnerships and real career pathways.

Senator Boats’ commitment to training transforms apprentices into leaders, fostering teamwork, mentorship & success in boatbuilding.

MAST Academy's 2024 Graduation celebrated top apprentices, inspiring leaders & award winners shaping NZ's marine industry future.

We’re excited to announce that our Pre-Trade courses are kicking off in late April 2025, with the next intake following in June 2025.

MAST Academy is excited to announce the upcoming 2025 start dates for our Business and Leadership courses.

Chris Bruwer, a marine tech and jetski racer, champions innovation, reducing weight for speed, and teamwork, proving wins start in the works

Richard Simonsen thrives at Canvasland, mastering diverse skills from installations to leadership, with a focus on teamwork and balance.

Rayglass invests in leadership training to equip staff for growth, teamwork, and preparing future leaders for the expanding company

Ethan Holland's journey from apprentice to GM at Makaira Boats showcases leadership through dedication, teamwork, and continuous improvement