Leaders break ground on South Carolina marine technology institute

GEORGETOWN COUNTY, S.C. (WCBD)—On Friday, a groundbreaking ceremony was held to celebrate a new marine technology institute, which officials said will be the future hub for marine technology training.

The new facility will provide a unique curriculum for students interested in marine outboard technology and boat-building technology.

“It’s a remarkable day for Horry Georgetown Technical College for students, our industry partners, and our great state, South Carolina. It’s an honor to welcome each of you to the groundbreaking ceremony for the Marine Technology Institute of South Carolina,” said Dr. Marilyn Murphy Fore, the president of Horry Georgetown Technical College. 

The state-of-the-art 25-square-foot training facility will be the home for the college’s outboard marine technology and boat-building technology programs.  Horry Georgetown Technical College will be the first institution in the state to have this curriculum. Officials told News 2 that the facility will economically drive Georgetown’s future. 

“This is more than a new building. It’s an investment in people, and it’s an investment in our state marine industry, which supports thousands of jobs across the coast, from boat manufacturing and services to marine electronics motor repairs and beyond,” said South Carolina representative Carl Anderson. 

The marine and boating industry in South Carolina employs over 155,000 people, and students say this new facility will help prepare them for successful jobs in the booming sector. 

“I think it will be promising, and they will have more information than I do right now, more space especially, and I’m assuming they will have more people to help them get through it. You know the experience is key,” said Kevin Alston II, a student at HGTC.

Officials plan to have the new facility open within the next few years.