The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum’s Shipyard recently marked a significant milestone with the graduation of Daniel Gutierrez from its state-accredited Shipwright Apprentice Program, supported by the Seip Family Foundation.
The ceremony took place last week, celebrating Gutierrez’s achievements as he received his official certification.
Gutierrez, who has been working diligently on the 1909 crab dredger Old Point to prepare it for a return to the water, took a break from his hands-on duties to celebrate his success with a crowd of enthusiastic staff, friends, and state officials.
Hard Work and Dedication
CBMM’s Vessel Conservation Manager, Sam Hilgartner, praised Gutierrez’s dedication throughout the apprenticeship. “Daniel dove in with both feet, determined to get the most out of this experience,” said Hilgartner.
“He’s worked hard and embraced being part of this community. As he graduates, I have complete confidence in his ability to continue the tradition of the CBMM Shipwright Apprentice Program.”
From Lifeguard to Shipwright
A native of Houston, Texas, Gutierrez transitioned from working as a lifeguard in Galveston to pursuing a career in boatbuilding.
After completing Cape Fear Community College’s Wooden Boat Building program, he arrived at CBMM in August 2023, following a recommendation from his instructor, Walter Atkins, who recently joined CBMM’s Shipyard team.
Gutierrez’s first assignment at CBMM was assisting with repairs on the historic skipjack Rosie Parks. He spent his early days working on the vessel’s portside planking, deck boards, and sheer clamp, and has since continued working on most of the museum’s fleet.
Skills Gained and Shared
Reflecting on his progress, Gutierrez shared, “It’s been really great. You don’t really notice it day-to-day, but looking back, I’ve learned so much here.” Over the course of the program, he completed 4,000 hours of hands-on training and additional skill development to prepare for an entry-level shipwright position.
Gutierrez credits the CBMM Shipyard as the ideal environment for growing his skills and confidence.
Under the guidance of Hilgartner, Shipyard Educator Steve Garrand, and Floating Fleet Shipwright Alex Bell, he has honed his craft and now shares those lessons with first-year apprentices, Caden Lewis and Austin Benshoff, while working on Old Point.
“Being here, you appreciate the ability to make mistakes,” Gutierrez said. “The mentors here understand that it happens. They have patience and want you to get it right.”
A New Passion for the Eastern Shore
Throughout his time in the Chesapeake, Gutierrez has developed a deep connection with the area. He has embraced life on the Eastern Shore, purchasing two boats through CBMM’s Charity Boat Donation Program, surfing at local beaches, hiking with his dog Goobie, and honing his fishing skills on nearby waterways.
Last fall, he also participated in oyster dredging aboard the skipjack HM Krentz with Capt. Ed Farley. “The culture of the Chesapeake is interesting to me,” said Gutierrez. “I really like it over here. I’ve tried to do as much exploring as I can.”
As a graduate of CBMM’s Shipwright Apprentice Program, Gutierrez is now well-equipped for his future in the world of boatbuilding. With a passion for the craft and the community around him, he looks forward to continuing his work and contributing to the tradition of preserving the Chesapeake Bay’s maritime heritage.
The Chesapeake Bay Maritime Museum continues to offer opportunities for aspiring shipwrights through its unique apprentice program, preserving the legacy of traditional wooden boatbuilding while nurturing the next generation of maritime craftsmen.
