Women making
Debbie Bricking
Owner , Riverside Marina
Education : High School Years in the marine industry : 50 + years What first drew you to the marine industry ? The marina business was a dream of mine and my husband , so you could say I followed my dream of being harbor master to the river . I quickly found a true love for the Ohio River life and the community of friendly mariners . What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry ? Aside from learning to respect the mighty Ohio River and all her personalities , I have learned that the marina business is as much a hospitality industry as our bar and grill . I value the strong , lasting relationships we have built with the boating community . We have the opportunity to start new relationships every season , and I am proud that many of our customers have been with us for all 50 years ! If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry , what would it be and why ? Over the years , as one of the local marinas on the Ohio River in the greater Cincinnati area , we have been active mariners ourselves , living yearround on a houseboat . We have organized and participated in so many social activities for the boating community that bring diverse boaters together in celebrating the boating lifestyle . Creating a sense of community and camaraderie among boaters has been a truly memorable achievement for me . Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry ? Why or why not ? Starting the business alongside my husband made it easier for me to navigate the tough spots along the way . Working with family and forging strong bonds with the many boaters always seemed to help navigate even the roughest waters . The challenges of running a marina
business require resilience and adaptability , but the rewards of being part of such a unique industry make it all worthwhile . How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry ? If I can inspire women in the marine industry in any way , I hope it would be to encourage them to pursue their dreams and strive for what they love . Whether it ' s in the marine industry or any other field , finding fulfillment in your work is essential . If that happens to be near a waterway , you will surely feel a deep sense of joy and purpose . What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry ?
Respect the water for all its beauty and power , and strive to forge long-lasting , meaningful relationships with other members of the marine community . The boating industry is built on a strong network of individuals who share a passion for the water . By nurturing these connections and continuously learning from others , you can find success and fulfillment in your career . What is your favorite place to go boating ? While the question assumes that a specific place is the highest priority , I would have to say my favorite place to go boating is in Sarasota , Florida . The combination of beautiful scenery , pleasant weather and diverse boating opportunities makes it an ideal destination . However , closer to home , any place to boat on the Ohio River , as long as it is with family or friends , is cherished and holds a special place in my heart .
Katie Brockwell
General Manager , Buckeye Sports Center
Education : B . S ., Marquette University Years in the marine industry : 13 years Other companies you have worked for in the marine industry and titles you held within those companies : Gordy ’ s Lakefront Marine , Sales Manager ; South Shore Marine ( One Water ), Sales Manager .
What first drew you to the marine industry ? The lake has always been an important part of my upbringing and is a major part of our area as a resort destination . My family was from Chicago and had a lake home in Wisconsin . They eventually moved to the lake full time . I spent my days at the pier , boating and seeing who could do the best back dives . My sister usually won . As the daily fun set in so did the sunset . We would gather down at the pier to watch the sunset and let the water put a sense of calm and happiness over us . So when I had the opportunity to work for Gordy ’ s Marine in the marine industry in my hometown , it was a great fit . That was my first jump into my marine career and have not looked back . What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry ? I ’ m still learning lessons each and every day as a general manager . But my focus to help overcome obstacles is to learn as much as I can about each aspect of the dealership . This provides you with the ability to assist your team and show support . They know they have someone to refer to when they are at a crossroads . Being versed in your business will build confidence and gain trust with your team , customers and vendors . Your biggest asset is your team . Help them , guide them , coach them . Help them be successful . You cannot do this without them . Creative problem solving and remaining composed during adversity . Things are going to go wrong . Be open to solutions and think through all possibilities . Have a backup plan or two .
22 june 2023 www . boatingindustry . com