Digital fabrication tools have been around for decades, and they can assist with scaling, consistency between jobs and storing patterns long term, among other benefits. However, making this transition takes time and effort that may feel insurmountable to a small business.

Employers in the trade industries are searching for ways to attract top talent, particularly those job seekers at the beginning of their careers. While finding the right candidates to fill marine fabricator roles can be challenging, it is possible.

Plotting/cutting table technology has made significant strides over the past several years.

Digital plotting/cutting technology stands to offer solid benefits to marine fabricators, many of whom may be struggling to address labor shortages and other production challenges. Even so, some of these machines come with hefty price tags.

If you want to keep customers happy, it pays to know in advance what they want. That’s especially true as boaters demand more from their boats; however, challenges abound in meeting those demands.

For nearly 50 years, Paul’s Custom Canvas has made a name for itself in Denver, Colo., through steady work and reliable craftsmanship.

When a boater finally selects the make and model of their dream boat, the next big step is choosing a name. In some ways, this decision defines the customer: Is the name playful or serious? Is the owner trying to use all the letters of their family members’ names?

Chaos can often be mistaken for capability. The ability to pivot quickly, solve problems on the fly and “make it work” under pressure is what many of us built our businesses on.

What happens to an owner’s company when they retire and no successor is available to take the reins? The answer might be all around them — on the shop floor, among the sales staff or within human resources, finance and legal departments.