Starke Yacht Care Certification Training Class September 17th & 18th, 2027
Become a STARKE Certified Installer
Two days. Hands-on. Fort Myers, Florida. September 2027.
The official STARKE Certification Course takes you through the entire STARKE lineup with hands-on training from the STARKE training team. You'll work a real boat in the shop — oxidized gelcoat that needs reconditioning — using a variety of machines, pads and STARKE products, and leave with the STARKE process for sanding, correction, coating and wash care maintenance.
Hosted at Marine Detail Supply headquarters in Fort Myers, this class brings STARKE certification to detailers serving Southwest Florida and beyond.
What You'll Learn
- Dry / Wet Sanding
- Compounding
- Polishing
- Coating Techniques
- Pad Systems
- Machine Systems
- Business Development
- Marketing
Meet the STARKE Training Team
Cole Holbrook, Lead Trainer — over a decade of hands-on marine detailing experience on top-tier yachts, specializing in surface restoration, ceramic coatings and advanced polishing systems.
Drew Lawrence, Supporting Trainer — founder of Next LVL Boatworks, bringing real-world shop experience and more one-on-one coaching on the floor.
Ken Mercer, HQ Co-host & Trainer — President of Starke Yacht Care and a marine detailing expert with a deep understanding of detailing processes, chemical formulations and technical applications. Known for simplifying complex techniques, Ken brings hands-on expertise in marine-specific challenges such as oxidation and gelcoat restoration.
John Watkins, HQ Co-host & Trainer — Founder of Marine Detail Supply.
What You Get
- The STARKE Certified Installer designation
- Your business listed on the Certified Installer Locator at starkeyachtcare.com for customer referrals
- Exclusive installer pricing: 35% off STARKE products, 20% off pads, 25% off STARKE sandpaper
- 3% rewards on qualifying purchases
- Access to STARKE trainers and the certified installer Facebook group
- STARKE Yacht Care Correction and Ceramic Coatings certification
- STARKE shirt and bucket, plus food and beverages both days
- $100 in-store credit
Class Details
- Two days: Friday, September 17 & Saturday, September 18, 2027
- Both days start in the morning and run all day; exact times are in the detail email
- 10 seats available
- We'll email full class details a couple of weeks before the class
- Marine Detail Supply HQ, Fort Myers, FL
Friendly Attendance & Refund Disclaimer
Please note that all class registrations are non-refundable.
If you're unable to attend the class you registered for, you're welcome to reschedule into any future class held at MDSC HQ in Fort Myers, FL. (Classes held outside of MDSC HQ are excluded from rescheduling.)
If rescheduling doesn't work for you, you may choose to receive your full deposit as store credit for the amount you paid.
If, for any reason, we need to cancel the class on our end, you may be eligible for a full refund.
If you need hotel recommendations, feel free to give us a call after you reserve your spot — we're happy to help get you set up.
The training at Marine Detail supply is very hands on and educational. the knowledge that you will gain from industry professionals is going to help take your business to the next level.
The training and knowledge that these guys offer helped me understand the logic of when to sand, what pads, polishes and machines to choose. Its all there in one package.
FAQ
Will there be hands on demonstration?
Absolutely. We will have a boat in the shop to work on. We typically focus on the hull sides. All the Starke products, pads and machines will be on display and available for use.
Will there be classroom work?
Yes. We like to sit down and go over some over the basics. We will have a presentation and slideshow. We start by introducing everyone.We like to ask why each person came and what they wanted to gain from this experience. Once we figure that out we can then dial in the message to focus on where everyone needs the most information.
Is this an accreditation course?
Yes. Sign up for this course to become a Starke Certified Installer and be listed on our site and receive special discounts on Starke products.
If I am a DIYer, can I attend this course.
Absolutely. This class is for the professional or the enthusiast. The techniques we will be teaching work across the board.
Customer reviews
