strategy for distribution of heavy equipment , and I was fascinated from the first moment I learned about it . I started to wonder why the people in the industry were always happy and smiling , and now I know how fun and rewarding it is to be in a dynamic industry that will always be there as long as there is water , either for recreation , trade , transport , work or safety . What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry ? I have learned that in order to continue contributing to the leadership of Volvo Penta , I must get closer to our customers of today and tomorrow . As a product planning manager , I must be customer centric and recognize that each region and segment has its own unique demands , pace , and profiles . Our customers are rapidly transforming , and we are developing technology for boaters that don ’ t even know they will be boaters in a few years . If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry , what would it be and why ? I would say having the opportunity to be the only woman in a room with over 100 men in navy uniforms , taking advice from me to build their warships with powerful engines and closing multi-million-dollar deals . I enjoyed working with navies from different countries during my times of marine sales manager and I appreciated the professional settings while doing business with the various navies I dealt with . I always felt respected and appreciated for the value I brought to the table and also had the opportunity to learn about each country ’ s policies on internal and external affairs . I think it is a dream come true for a woman who enjoys adventure , building quality personal and professional relationships , and appreciates an environment of excellence and honor . Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry ? Why or why not ? The marine industry can be very fun and dynamic ; however , it is still a reality that not many women are in technical roles , which makes it a bit lonely at times . As long as I enjoyed what I was doing I didn ’ t feel it was difficult . And if there was something I didn ’ t know , I worked hard to know who to ask .
I think making sure my personal values are aligned with the organization I am part of are crucial to make it a smooth ride for me . At Volvo Penta , I am surrounded by great people who share my values and commitment to make a positive impact in the industry and our environment , which makes me enjoy what I do even more . How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry ? Doing my job the best I can and honoring the opportunities I have been given with professionalism and femininity . I think women play a big role in society and our own unique qualities raise the standards of every situation , including at work . I hope I can inspire other women to pursue science careers , to dare to have fun at work and still be professional , to explore other cultures and countries and to continue to invest in their education as a gateway to an interesting life that never stops learning . What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry ? I would summarize it in the following points : 1 . Do some self-reflection on what your personal values are , where do you see yourself in the future and how you want to impact the industry . That will help you identify the organization you want to be part of and from there , start to design your career aspirations . 2 . Seek mentors who have your same values and can help you identify your career path and introduce you to people who can help you learn and advance . 3 . Always be prepared and do the homework before going to any meeting .
What is your favorite place to go boating ? I have gone boating to many beautiful places , however , the memories of boating in my home country , Venezuela , in a place called Lecherias , will always be close to my heart . The experience of having friends , family , amazing scenery , crystal clear water and eating freshly caught fish cooked on the grill off the boat will always be a special memory .
Kayleigh Santi
Innovative Boating Experience Manager , Legend Boats
Education : Honors Bachelor of Commerce , Laurentian University Years in the marine industry : 13 years What first drew you to the marine industry ? Growing up around the marine industry , with my father and grandfather owning and operating Legend Boats , I always found myself drawn to the boating lifestyle . I always wanted to be a part of this incredible industry , where we get to make people ’ s dreams of owning a boat come true . Growing up , I spent a lot of time around the shop and dealership as well as weekends going to our water access only family cottage on Lake Panache . My favorite nap spot was always on the boat and my favorite memories are fishing with my dad and cuddling with my mom and sister as we hunkered down on a rough ride home .
www . boatingindustry . com june 2023
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