Propelling Excellence, Elevating Professionalism and Sharing Knowledge
Advancing the Marine Propulsion Industry Through Certification, Education, and Standards
The National Marine Propulsion Association (NMPA) is the trusted voice of excellence in marine propulsion. Formerly known as the National Marine Propeller Association, our organization has grown to reflect the full range of marine propulsion technologies — from traditional propellers to modern, integrated systems.
As the leading authority in the industry, NMPA is committed to elevating service quality, safety, and performance through professional certification, hands-on training, and a shared standard of excellence. Our certification programs identify qualified technicians and shops who deliver consistent, reliable results — ensuring vessels of all types perform at their best.
Whether you’re a boat owner seeking trusted service or a marine professional striving to stand out, NMPA certification is the mark of confidence, quality, and integrity.
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Professional Certification
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Education & Knowledge Sharing
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Peer-to-Peer Professional Networking
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Annual Marine Propulsion Expo
Our History
Founded in 1992, the National Marine Propeller Association was created to serve the unique needs of propeller repair shops in the recreational marine industry.
From the start, our mission has been to:
- Promote the highest standards in propeller repair, sales, and customer service
- Provide education and technical training to expand professional knowledge
- Elevate the industry through recognized certification and accountability
As propulsion systems have evolved, so has NMPA — embracing new technologies, expanding our reach, and redefining what it means to help our members deliver world-class service to recreational and commercial boaters alike.
What started as a gathering of like-minded propeller repair business owners in Las Vegas to share knowledge, techniques, tips and camaraderie, evolved into one of the most unique annual conventions that focused on providing hands-on training in propeller repair, educational seminars, certification workshops, displays of the latest propellers on the market, and exhibits of new tools, technologies and equipment from propeller manufacturers, product and service suppliers. Ultimately, the Annual Convention became the Annual Marine Propulsion Expo.
From its early days publishing The Leading Edge—the member newsletter launched shortly after the association’s founding—to today’s dynamic video and audio podcast NMPA Prop Talk, the association has consistently delivered timely, authoritative insights on the marine propeller and propulsion industry. Providing members with up-to-date news and information has remained a central pillar of its mission.