Coatings Specialist

Nearly every component or structural element aboard ship requires specific coatings. This is why the apprentice painter is trained in the selection and proper application of a wide variety of marine coating systems. Coatings protect the steel and other surfaces from rust and corrosion, protect the underwater portion from the attachment of marine life and enhance the general appearance of the ship. The apprentice prepares the surface, masks unpainted areas, sandblast surfaces, selects the methods of coating application and provides suitable curing conditions. In addition to modern paint application techniques, the student will work with powder coating, non-skid and other special hull treatments. The apprentice is also taught to interpret paint schedules, calculate surface areas, estimate the amount of materials required, test the grade, viscosity and fineness of a paint and perform final quality inspections.