Every time a boat leaves the dock and everything works exactly as it should, there is usually a marine service technician behind that reliability. Their work often goes unseen, but their impact is felt on every trip offshore, every harbor cruise and every safe return to the slip.
This spring, those professionals will be recognized on an international level.
The American Boat & Yacht Council (ABYC) has announced that the fifth annual International Marine Service Technician Week will take place April 20 through 24, 2026. The week is dedicated to recognizing the skill, professionalism and commitment of marine technicians across the boating industry — including the many technicians working in boatyards, marinas and service facilities throughout Southern California.
“Marine technicians are the pros who keep boats running, families making memories and safety top of mind. This week is about saying thank you, highlighting outstanding techs and sharing stories from across the industry,” said Shannon Aronson, ABYC senior director of marketing and communications.
From San Diego to Santa Barbara, marine technicians are the backbone of daily marina operations. They haul boats for service, troubleshoot electrical systems, maintain engines and running gear, service safety equipment and ensure vessels are ready for use in some of the busiest harbors on the West Coast.
Throughout the week, ABYC will spotlight technicians and marine businesses on social media with daily themes and hashtags, offer technical challenges with prizes, and provide online educational opportunities for technicians.
The week will also include the presentation of ABYC’s Outstanding Technician and New Achiever awards, with nominations opening in February. This provides an opportunity for Southern California marine businesses to recognize the technicians who consistently go above and beyond.
Marine businesses interested in participating can find ideas and examples from past celebrations through ABYC, and updates will be shared using the hashtags #MarineServiceTechWeek and #ThankYouMarineTechs.
For boaters, the message is simple: April 20 through 24 is a chance to thank the technician whose work keeps your boat running safely and reliably all year long.
