IBTC News

Students join together to celebrate instructor Bob Hunt

Bob Hunt has been a popular instructor ever since he joined IBTC Portsmouth 3 years ago. So when he decided it was time to clock out of Boathouse 4 for the last time the students organised their very own farewell party to celebrate his retirement. 

Over slices of chocolate cake and sips of sparkling wine, Bob reflected on his time as a shipwright. His has been a long and interesting career. "At school I started joinery in woodwork classes, building a little pram dinghy for my CSE exams. Soon after that I applied for an apprenticeship in Portsmouth Dockyard. It was a priceless opportunity, I learnt so much and even had the chance to work repairing HMS Victory."

After finishing his apprenticeship Bob had a varied career, working for several of the regions' great boatbuilding firms including Vosper Thornycroft and Camper & Nicholsons in Gosport. Following an injury he spent several years as a telephone engineer, but was always keen to return to the more fulfilling work of boatbuilding. In 2002 Bob began working for Dolphine Quay Boatyard in Emsworth, then worked on the restoration of a 40ft 4-masted Junk.  When the chance to become an instructor at IBTC Portsmouth arose Bob saw it as a great opportunity to return to Portsmouth Dockyard and train others where he had learnt his own skills, "I've been very fortunate to have been able to spend my last few working years sharing some of my skills with so many interesting and enthusiastic people. I've enjoyed seeing them use those skills and producing some lovely work. It's been a very happy time"

We all wish Bob the very best for wonderful retirement!

21/08/2019

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