ABOUT THE COURSE

WHO SHOULD ATTEND

This course is for those who want to learn the best approaches to making long-lasting, cost-effective boat repairs and develop a deeper understanding of modern composite technology. Since 1987, hundreds of boat repair technicians, dealers, surveyors, insurance inspectors and yard professionals have made the trek to snowy Bay City, Michigan to gain first-hand knowledge from our experienced technical staff. This hands-on course provides a solid understanding of WEST SYSTEM Epoxy’s handling, uses and physical properties. You’ll tap into a wealth of structural marine repair expertise gained from years of working closely with boat builders, repair professionals and engineers. Class size is limited to 24 students.

WHERE

In the Gougeon Brothers Technical Building at our Bay City, Michigan, plant where we manufacture WEST SYSTEM Epoxy.
Gougeon Brothers, Inc.
100 Patterson Ave.
Bay City, MI 48706.

WHEN

Our two-day course will be offered in two sessions this year:

Session 1
  • Tuesday February 6th – Wednesday February 7th, 2024 
Session 2
  • Tuesday February 13th – Wednesday February 14th, 2024
COST

Just $595 provides you with 14 hours of instruction and hands-on experience using WEST SYSTEM Epoxy for boat maintenance and repair. Your hotel accommodations at the Quality Inn and Suites both nights (session 1: check in Feb.5-check out Feb.7, Session 2: check in Feb.12-check out Feb.14), catered lunches and a dinner at a local eatery are included in the price. In addition, you’ll take home comprehensive manuals and a sample kit of some great WEST SYSTEM products.

CANCELLATION POLICY

If you must cancel, we’ll refund your payment in full up to seven days before the course date. Cancellations made closer to the course date will be prorated. Please contact Nicole Barber at [email protected] for changes/cancellations.

Boat Repair Class Schedule

Day OneDay Two
Welcome — 8:00 a.m.
Introduction, Overview and Pre-assessment
Gelcoat Blisters — 8:00 a.m.
Repair techniques
Barrier coating
Basic Techniques
Mixing and applying
Understanding the product line
Hands-on project
Tour
Testing lab
Gougeon Brothers' Boat Shop
SafetySpecialty Epoxies
Selection and application
Common uses
Fastener Bonding
Discussion of techniques and applications
Hands-on Project
Repairing Wood in Fiberglass Boats
Lunch — 12:00 NoonLunch — 12:00 Noon
Composite Technology
Discuss theory and practice
Hands-on project
Vacuum bagging demo
Methods for Removing Epoxy-Bonded Fasteners
Composite Repair
Discussion and demo of boat repair techniques and applications
Hands-on project
Questions & Post-Assessment
Fairing Application & TechniquesAdjourn — 4:00 p.m.
Gelcoat Repairs Over Epoxy
Dinner — 5:30 p.m.

“I thought I knew everything! Very comprehensive, very valuable hands-on info.” — Bob Gilson, Scarano Boats

Join us for our next Epoxy Repair class

Space for each session is limited to 24 registrants.

SIGN UP HERE AND WE WILL LET YOU KNOW WHEN REGISTRATION IS OPEN.

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