COLUMBIA, S.C. — September 8, 2021 — South Carolina-based companies that make boats and fishing tackle are experiencing an unprecedented surge in demand and virtually all of them are looking for workers.

As a result, the South Carolina Boating & Fishing Alliance (SCBFA) announced today the addition of an industry-wide manufacturing careers page to the organization’s website.

“The boating and fishing community has seen an unprecedented increase in demand for products since the coronavirus pandemic began,” said SCBFA CEO Gettys Brannon, citing data from the National Marine Manufacturers Association (NMMA) that shows boat purchases reaching a 13-year high in 2020. “This demand sheds light on the need for more skilled workers, and the Alliance is committed to helping develop a workforce that will meet the industry’s needs.”

Visitors to the website can learn about job opportunities at various boating and fishing manufacturers across the state, which contribute to the industry’s $5 billion economic impact. These companies offer a wide range of jobs, from engineering to skilled labor positions, such as welding and fiberglass and gel coat operating, with competitive pay and benefits in a unique work environment. 

“Boating and fishing are the most popular recreational activities in South Carolina, and there are great opportunities to match passion with careers,” said SCBFA Chairman Chris Butler. “With the addition of this digital resource, jobseekers can find outdoor industry job opportunities on one page and a click away.”

Meeting the growing demand of specialized workforce needs for this industry in South Carolina is one of SCBFA’s paramount initiatives.

SCBFA is devoted to investing in the industry’s future through education and workforce development programs to ensure companies have a skilled workforce to meet the growing demands.

The careers page is the latest addition to the SCBFA website, after adding a certified dealer database to its boating and fishing toolkit page last month.