Delivered with the BMTA and the Solent Growth Partnership, the Solent Marine Fabrication & Welding Skills Bootcamp helps Solent marine employers build practical fabrication and welding skills across their workforce. Developed with industry to support growing demand in shipbuilding, vessel repair and marine engineering, this co-funded programme is now open for applications from Solent-based employers & employees.
The Solent Marine Fabrication & Welding Skills Bootcamp is a practical, employer-led training programme created to prepare learners for careers in marine fabrication, welding and engineering. Delivered to an industry-relevant Level 2-3 standard, the course combines technical knowledge with extensive workshop-based learning to help participants develop the skills employers are actively seeking.
Throughout the programme, learners will gain experience working with engineering drawings, fabrication processes and welding preparation techniques while building confidence in using professional tools, equipment and industry methods. Training is designed to support progression from core fabrication principles through to more advanced technical skills used within modern marine and engineering environments.
A strong focus is placed on health & safety, accuracy, inspection procedures and maintaining high-quality workmanship, ensuring learners are equipped with the practical ability and professional standards required within the maritime sector.
The Solent Growth Partnership has successfully secured funding from the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) to support the running of Skills Bootcamps like this one in the Solent region. This funding will boost the Solent’s workforce, ensuring employers have access to new talent, and individuals acquire the skills to get the type of jobs that they aspire to.
60 hours over 10 weeks
To be confirmed
Training is delivered by the expert team at BMTA through a combination of workshop-based practical sessions held on the shop floor and within dedicated welding bays, alongside instructor demonstrations, guided classroom-based learning and continuous assessment. This hands-on approach ensures learners develop not only the technical fabrication and welding skills employers are looking for, but also the confidence and professionalism needed to succeed in demanding marine and engineering environments.
Upon successful completion, receive a Marine Fabrication & Welding Skills Bootcamp certificate from BMTA and Fareport Training, delivered in collaboration with the Solent Growth Partnership.
This training programme is predominantly funded by the Solent Growth Partnership. Eligible self-employed participants may be able to join the course on a fully-funded (free) basis. For small to medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) with up to 250 employees, a 10% employer contribution is required, with the remaining 90% subsidised by the Solent Growth Partnership. Larger organisations (over 250 employees) are asked to cover 30% of the course cost, while the remaining 70% is funded by the Solent Growth Partnership. Access to this funding is subject to participants meeting the necessary eligibility criteria.
The Solent Marine Fabrication & Welding Skills Bootcamp is designed for individuals and businesses operating within the marine and engineering sectors. It is ideal for marine employers looking to strengthen the skills of their workforce, as well as people seeking to begin or progress a career in fabrication, welding and marine engineering. The programme is particularly suited to those wanting practical, employer-focused training that reflects the real demands of shipbuilding, vessel repair, offshore energy and advanced manufacturing environments. Funded places are available for eligible participants, making the Bootcamp an accessible opportunity for both individuals and employers in the Solent region looking to develop in-demand technical skills.
To be eligible to apply, you need to meet the following criteria:
Live or be working within the Solent region of Hampshire
Be 19 years of age or older by 31st August 2026
Be currently employed or self-employed in the marine industry with some mechanical or engineering experience
Have the legal right to work in the UK and have resided in the UK for at least one year
Be motivated to develop your marine fabrication & welding skills and committed to completing the bootcamp
Please see start dates below:
Learners will apply safe systems of work in accordance with workshop and industry standards, including:
At Level 3, learners will demonstrate independent responsibility for maintaining a safe work area.
Development of competence in selecting, using, and maintaining fabrication tools, including:
Learners will be expected to work with reduced supervision as skills progress.
Focus on accuracy, tolerances, and quality standards:
Level 3 learners will work to specified tolerances and complete basic inspection checks.
Learners will interpret and apply engineering information, including:
At Level 3, learners will demonstrate the ability to transfer drawing information independently into practical tasks.
Practical development of workshop skills, including:
Learners will complete structured fabrication projects to specification.
Understanding and application of mechanical fastening systems:
Level 3 learners will justify fixing method selection based on application requirements.
Preparation for welding operations to industry standards:
Learners will demonstrate structured preparation procedures prior to welding.
An applied introduction to aluminium welding processes, including:
Learners will gain practical exposure under supervision, building foundational competence aligned with Level 2–3 standards.
Brian McKeown brings over 25 years of experience in heavy vehicle and plant mechanical engineering before becoming a marine engineering trainer in 2004. He has worked closely with Richard for 14 years and with Owen for 6 years, developing tailored marine engineering courses for clients like Babcock, Caterpillar, Honda, and Volvo Penta UK. As lead Marine Engineering Lecturer at Bournemouth & Poole College, Brian oversees apprenticeship programs and collaborates with local employers to align training with industry needs. He introduced Scottish Qualification Authority Level 2 & 3 Diplomas in Maritime Studies to the college, preparing students for cadetships and apprenticeships. Brian is an RYA Diesel Engine Instructor, MCA AEC1-approved, holds a BA in Post-Compulsory Education, an HNC in Plant Technology, and serves as an assessor/IQA.
On successful completion, learners will be able to:
The Fabrication & Welding Skills Bootcamp is an intensive, industry-focused training programme designed at Level 2–3 standard, preparing learners for skilled roles within fabrication, engineering, and welding environments.
The Fabrication & Welding Skills Bootcamp course is delivered through a combination of:
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