Guam Community College celebrated the graduation of 16 ship repair pre-apprentices in a completion ceremony on Wednesday, April 2.

The boot camp is funded through the Metallica Scholars Initiative and provides students with training in blueprint reading, surface paint preparation, marine diesel, and industry certifications.

GCC President Dr. Mary Okada praised the program’s success in connecting participants with employers like Cabras Marine Corporation, Guam Shipyard, and Seafix.

Graduate Lucylynn Castro stated the boot camp has helped her move from an entry level job into something better. 

“We worked hard and we will keep learning even after we find jobs,” Castro added. “I graduated in 2023 and I have had an entry level job and I wasn’t happy with what I was doing. Then one day, Gil Yanger (GCC Instructor) had asked me if I would be interested in this boot camp. I don’t regret doing this. I don’t think I ever will. Thank you, guys, for everything.”

All 16 completers have been offered employment, showcasing the impact of GCC’s boot camp model in building a skilled workforce for Guam.