June 12, 2020
Mast Builder
All sailing yachts will have a mast which is used to hoist the boat’s sails. Mast building is a highly specialised job that requires knowledge a wide range of knowledge including materials, machining, spray finishing and more. The mast is one of the most dynamic and complex components of a sailing yacht where the mast has the job of transferring the power generated by the wind and sails into the yacht. A mast is supported by rigging and a rig package would include masts, spars, crossbeams and longerons. As a mast builder you would also build these.
As a mast and rig builder, you will also have to install the mast and rig on a boat. This means working with cranes to “step” the mast or put it correctly in place on the boat. Once the mast is “stepped” you will need to go up the mast and check on things, so you need a head for heights. This work is done outdoors and is physical, so one would need to be an active fit person. You will also work closely with the sail manufacturers who will install the sails once the mast is correctly in place and the rig is supporting the mast.
A knowledge and love of sailing is very important as mast builders learn on the job. There is lots of measuring and so you need to be accurate and have high attention to details. With no formal qualifications you will need to establish your own reputation. Being punctual, hardworking, and keen to learn are important.
Key tasks:
• Aluminium CNC cutting and welding.
• Advanced carbon fibre work including vacuum infusion and operation of an autoclave.
• Interpreting drawings.
• Measuring and marking.
• Drilling, cutting, installing of precision parts.
• Operating filament winding machines.
• Spray painting and finishing.
• Quality control.
• Mast stepping.
• Rigging installation.
Entry requirements/training:
There is no formal qualification, and you will learn on the job. Being good at maths and having a love for sailing is a good starting point. If you are good at engineering and you enjoy working with your hands in a high-precision industry, this job could be for you. You need to be accurate and reliable and able to work well in a team. Being good at solving problems and having a knowledge of composite materials and aluminium helps.
Career advancement:
As you gain more and more experience in a mast building facility you will move from being a junior mast builder to a senior mast builder. One day with enough experience, you could own the manufacturing facility and employ other people to work with you. You will need to stay on top of boat design trends and work closely with yacht designers who specify the type of “rig” for a particular sailing boat.
Associated job opportunities:
Job opportunities for mast builders can be found in various sectors of the maritime industry, particularly in boat and yacht construction, repair yards, and mast manufacturing facilities. Here are potential job opportunities for mast builders:
• Boat and Yacht Building Yards
• Custom Yacht Builders
• Sailboat Manufacturers
• Yacht Refit and Repair Yards
• Mast Manufacturing Companies
With general precision engineering skills as well as knowledge of materials and design, you could also seek employment in other engineering firms, such as the aerospace industry and the military where precision work is highly valued. Generally, you find mast builders do not leave the industry as they are passionate about sailing boats and love their work.
