The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) has appointed Lisa Van Gruisen as the new coordinator of its Marine Trades Accreditation Programme (MTAP).
Van Gruisen takes over the role from Sarah Devlin, who is retiring.
MTAP provides secondary and postsecondary school marine service technology programmes with a third-party review of curriculum, supplies and instruction, as well as support on industry-recognised topics and techniques.
The programme’s goal is to increase the quality and quantity of entry-level marine service employees by better connecting students with the boating industry and its needs.
Working with schools
As MTAP coordinator, Van Gruisen will work with schools from initial interest through final accreditation, supporting the application process, coordinating site visits and working with the MTAP Review Commission.
Van Gruisen is a former Fulbright English teacher and Teach For America corps member, with a background that includes teaching in Hawaii, Italy and aboard tall ships, as well as crewing on classic sailing yachts.
Van Gruisen is an ABYC Certified Master Technician in Marine Electrical, Marine Diesel Engines and Marine Systems, as well as an Advanced NMEA Certified Marine Electronics Installer.
Recreational boating standards
She is also a recipient of the Bolling Fortson Douglas Memorial Award, given to ABYC members who best exemplify dedication to the marine industry through the advancement of safety, education and standards in recreational boating.
“With experience teaching in both traditional and experiential learning environments, I am passionate about hands-on education and the opportunities it creates for students entering the marine industry,” said Van Gruisen.
“I am excited to support ABYC’s mission by helping marine trades schools achieve accreditation through the Marine Trades Accreditation Programme, strengthening workforce development and promoting the safety standards that help make recreational boating safer for everyone.”
