NORTH KINGSTOWN, R.I. (WJAR) — A $78.6 million contract to build a hybrid ferry has created a major opportunity for Senesco Marine in North Kingstown, but the company faced a challenge: finding enough local welders for the job.
Senesco Marine was awarded the contract in November 2025. President Ted Williams said the project highlighted the need to strengthen Rhode Island’s shipbuilding workforce.
“So, it really is a critical need for our state to enhance our shipbuilding capabilities,” Williams said.
Senesco turned to the Community College of Rhode Island, which created a custom, 14-week shipbuilding welding program to help train workers for the project. Polaris MEP, a local manufacturing consulting group, paid for the training.
The program is free for students. Welding student Paige Huggon said that made it possible for her to try something new without worrying about the cost…