NNK Wooden Boat School

  • Arts & Culture
  • Boating and Water Safety
  • Community
  • Education
  • Employment
  • Youth

Who We Are

Mission Statement: The Northern Neck Wooden Boat School is dedicated to empowering young individuals by teaching valuable career, educational, and life skills through the art of woodworking and boatbuilding. Our mission is to help participants grow into confident, skilled, and self-sufficient members of the community, prepared to succeed in both their professional and personal lives.

Program Details: The Northern Neck Wooden Boat School's Apprenticeship Program serves school age students focusing on using the craft of boatbuilding to instill practical job skills and foster positive personal habits. Participants learn essential technical skills such as woodworking, boat construction, and craftsmanship while also developing critical soft skills like problem-solving, resilience, and communication. The program emphasizes personal growth by teaching life skills including empathy, self-care, and healthy relationship-building.

The program also provides career exploration opportunities, community involvement, and adult mentorship to support ongoing personal and professional development.

Program Impact: The Northern Neck Wooden Boat School's Apprenticeship Program cultivates resilience and self-confidence, helping young people make better decisions and prepare for their futures. Through hands-on experience and mentorship, participants become role models and sources of inspiration for their peers and communities. The program equips young people with the tools to navigate challenges, build strong relationships, and chart a clear path toward personal and professional success.

What We Do

We teach the children of our community how to build Wooden Boats. More importantly we teach Mathematics, Physics, and Engineering. On a social level we teach Critical Thinking, Team Building, and Work Ethic. On a practical level we teach Boat Building and Carpentry Skills. 

Our vision Is Work Force Development, and Career Path Alternatives directed towards Marine Industries and Science.