School Profiles: IYRS Students, Alumni & Instructors
Students & Alumni
Kurt Mussleman - Composites Technology '11
Coming from a computer background, I also liked doing “bleeding edge” work—and that means composites. I liked the real-world focus on the program that took us through the entire manufacturing process. We went from concept, to design, to production, all the while maintaining close tolerances through the use of computer-based technologies [i.e., CAD/CAM/CNC].
Heather Gardner - Marine Systems '11
It’s changed my life in so many ways. I look at how everyday objects are made now, how they’re wired and constructed. I’m not afraid of taking anything apart; now I like to take things apart! I would tell people, “Stop considering it; just do it.”
Kenny Grauer - Boatbuilding & Restoration ’09, Marine Systems ‘10
There are definitely more jobs to choose from in systems. My systems education gave me the confidence to go right to work without further on-the-job training.
Herreshoff 12 ½ Team – Boatbuilding & Restoration
Last year, I learned how to work with a team, to be efficient and to produce high quality. This year, I want to build my leadership skills.
Coronet Internship Team
It was great – the sweat and blood and fun. It’s the hardest thing I’ve ever done and I want to do it again. Working on Coronet crystallized my belief that I really want to be here. If you enjoy doing something that difficult, you have to be in the right place.
Morgan Huntley - Marine Systems ‘08
Our whole approach during the school year was figuring out how to make it work vs. saying it can’t be done…What I learned at IYRS has really let me shine within my current work situation. The whole reason to go to IYRS was to move up the work track faster.
Karl Cresotti – Boatbuilding & Restoration ‘08
I was a carpenter doing residential work--everything from framing to finish work. I enjoyed it but I was looking for something more challenging. I loved the water and so put the two together.
Sam Ingram - Marine Systems ‘08
A boat is one massive, self contained system, operating under the harshest of conditions. The structure of the hull, means of propulsion, and amenities are all interconnected and fighting for limited space. Understanding these components allows for smart compromises. I like this type of problem solving. When I put it all together, the ten-month commitment felt right.
Jen Harner – Boatbuilding & Restoration ‘05
Knowing how to use hand tools right means I can use any other tools. I can apply that skill to so many other areas—cabinetry, furniture, even theater set design. I’m marketable in other industries. I also learned to have faith in my skills and ability and to trust my own judgment. I try to get as much information from people as I can and then go figure it out.
Jay Picotte - Boatbuilding & Restoration ‘02
After spending a few years reading about classic boats and their designers and builders, soaking up as much knowledge as I could, I realized that learning the technical aspects of boat design and construction required getting my hands dirty. Also, the teamwork involved and the final payoff—floating and sailing a boat I had helped to breathe new life into—surpassed anything I had read in a book.
Instructors
Jen McNally - Managing Instructor, Boatbuilding & Restoration
I am helping to produce both a skilled tradesman and a boat at the same time. The challenge is in always trying to balance the two.
Warren Barker – Senior Instructor, Boatbuilding & Restoration
I like getting students wound up about building boats, and I like meeting people. One of the best aspects of teaching at IYRS is what we’re restoring – pedigree boats that I wouldn’t ever have received as a commission.
Henry Elliot - Composites Technology Instructor
When we talk about the pioneering aspects of using these [Composites} materials to build boats, it is all problem-solving. Students will have the same challenge. They will have a strong foundation in the basics and will learn how to apply those tools creatively. I have always found the problem solving part of it to be the most interesting part of the process, regardless of the materials or the task.
Kevin McKiernan - Marine Systems Instructor
Take pride in yourself and what you do. Stay neat and organized and help those around you stay organized (nobody wants a messy boat).