STORIES

Rob McCullough of Riverdale first to complete NSBA MST apprenticeship McCullough aboard a memorable build, Theodore Tugboat (contributed) At A.F. Theriault & Son Ltd. in Meteghan River, craftsmanship is measured both in vessels launched and in the skill of the people who build and maintain them. Rob McCullough has long been one of those steady hands in the yard. Now he holds a distinction that marks both personal achievement and a milestone for the province: he is the first

Cheticamp Boatbuilders, seen from the sky When Brett Robinson and partner Peter Lewin purchased Cheticamp Boatbuilders , they were careful in how they approached the 45-year community fixture. Over three years later, Cheticamp has stabilized operations, expanded services and formalized workforce development while preserving the shop’s culture. Robinson credits Cheticamp’s core — employees with decades of experience — for easing the transition. “It’s really the crew,” he says.

Recently certified Boat Builder Dan Wendt with a work in progress - a Wherry Yawl - built using the skill of lofting, taught in the apprenticeship program When Dan Wendt talks about becoming a certified Boat Builder, he’s quick to laugh at the paperwork still catching up with him. He does have his NSBA "Certified Boat Builder" hat, awarded upon completion of the curriculum. "The hat, though," he points out, "for me, that's the thing. When you can wear the hat, then you're a b