customer service , integrity and top of the line service is bar none . Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry ? Why or why not ? I have a great supportive team . We ask a lot of questions and network to find solutions . We understand the seasonality and profit needs of our market . I was surprised how many familyowned marinas are still out there ; we have been able to add value to our customer base , especially multi-site locations . How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry ? I ’ ve never been one that likes a lot of attention . I lead by actions , I guess . I am a good listener . With mental health being at the forefront these days in our workplace , creating opportunities and outlets for personal expression , release & flexibility has been important as evident in some of our workplace benefits . My entire company knows my open-door policy is not just lip service . What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry ? Always listen to your inner voice and stay curious . Ask questions . Find a mentor . What is your favorite place to go boating ? While the ocean ( and its inhabitants ) is my happy place , I really love the diversity of the Great Lakes since we live so close to Lake Erie and the Cuyahoga River and its tributaries .
Kim Loenichen
VP of Sales , Monterey Boats & Blackfin Boats
Education : High School Years in the marine industry : 43 years Other companies you have worked for in the marine industry and titles you held within those companies : Wellcraft – Lead in Manufacturing , Sr . Dealer Sales Coordinator ; Monterey Boats – Sales Manager , Director of Sales ; Blackfin Boats – Director of Sales . What first drew you to the marine industry ? My path to the marine industry began after graduating high school . I grew up as an avid boater in northern Michigan , and ultimately moved from Michigan to Florida after high school . I was looking for a job when I came across a boat company in Sarasota , Florida . I had never worked in a manufacturing environment and thought it would be interesting to learn all the aspects of how a boat was produced . I built a foundational knowledge by working in manufacturing for five years . I began by simply being a boat cleaner / striping boats , lead person over final , and worked diligently to get promoted to the sales department , establishing the first dealer coordinator for that company . I was fortunate to surround myself with mentors who believed in me and let me “ make the job my own .” The co-workers , dealer networks , and vendor partners who I can proudly call my friends are those who have kept me in this industry for 43 years . What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry ? The marine industry is small compared to other industries , so you must be flexible and learn to adapt to new ideas , because this industry can change rapidly . We must remind ourselves that this industry represents a lifestyle , and our products can represent a customer ’ s lifetime goal , so it is imperative to remain innovative in design , marketing , and sales strategies . Many of us experienced the tremendous hardship of the Covid-19 pandemic and were forced to navigate
the associated economic impacts . Remaining dedicated to your team , your brands , and your personal goals will help you and your company weather challenges that are certain to come . If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry , what would it be and why ? Over the span of a 40-plus year career in the marine industry I have so many memorable achievements in my career , but I think the most memorable was when Seabring Marine trusted me and supported me by promoting me and giving me the opportunity to become the vice president of sales for both Monterey Boats and Blackfin Boats . I was given the opportunity to continue the growth of Monterey and assist in the startup of Blackfin Boats , implementing programs , a dealer network , promotions , etc . Through this , I have been able to pursue and reach some of my professional and personal goals .
Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry ? Why or why not ? I assume that every industry has its challenges when navigating a successful career . However , I believe there may be additional obstacles for women who choose a male dominated industry . This is undoubtedly a competitive industry that women can certainly be successful in , but must actively manage a healthy balance between career aspiration and raising a family . I have been blessed with both by seeking to learn at every opportunity , working hard to reach my personal goals , and remembering everything has merit , nothing will be handed to you . How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry ? This industry is forever changing , and more and more women are thriving in it . Women are smart , strong , witty , and sometimes more detail orientated and can be great leaders . I am very fortunate to work for a company who has more females in management positions then others in the marine industry . I have tried to be a dedicated mentor to the next generation of woman leaders by providing guidance , support ,
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