Michigan Boat School Gets $5K Match for Student Scholarships

The Marine Trades Institute in Michigan just made it twice as easy for donors to support the next generation of boat builders and technicians.

The school partnered with the Les Cheneaux Community Foundation on a $5,000 matching gift challenge. Every dollar donated to the Nickels-Stiner Memorial Endowed Scholarship Fund gets doubled by the Stiner family, up to $5,000.

The scholarship honors George H. Nickels, a lifelong boater and co-owner of Nickels Boat Company. This year alone, the fund will award $2,127 to a student pursuing a marine trades career.

Tom Coates, development director at MTI, explained the power of the match. "By meeting this match, our community can turn $5,000 into $10,000 that will be added to the endowment's principal," he said.

That $10,000 doesn't just help one student. It grows the endowment permanently, generating more interest each year and increasing scholarship amounts for future students.

The initiative reflects a simple philosophy shared by the Stiner family and George Nickels himself. "No one succeeds in life without the assistance of others," Coates noted.

The Ripple Effect

This scholarship challenge comes as MTI celebrates another milestone. The school's Marine Technology Program just earned re-accreditation from the Marine Trades Accreditation Program, proving it meets rigorous industry standards.

The designation followed a site visit and unanimous vote by the review commission. It confirms that students are learning skills that match what the marine industry actually needs.

"Receiving this re-accreditation is a testament to the hard work of our faculty and the dedication of our students," said Interim President Dr. Brody Waybrant. The recognition validates MTI's role in preparing skilled marine technicians for rewarding careers.

Together, the scholarship growth and program accreditation create a powerful combination. Students get both financial support and top-tier training, setting them up for success in a skilled trade with growing demand.

Donations can be made through the Les Cheneaux Community Foundation by designating the scholarship fund. Every gift made before the match limit helps build opportunities that will support students for generations.