opportunities available in this field . I began my career as a director of a single department and eventually grew into the role of Chief Human Resources Officer ( CHRO ) for a publicly held company with an international presence . My journey demonstrates that with dedication and hard work , significant career growth is possible . By sharing my experiences and accomplishments , I hope to encourage other women to pursue their goals and realize their potential in the marine industry . What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry ? My advice to women starting their careers in the marine industry is to always be open to learning and to ask questions to gain a deeper understanding . Take the time to understand the manufacturing process and strive to be a partner in it . This proactive approach will help you build credibility and develop strong , collaborative relationships with your peers . By embracing continuous learning and partnership , you will build a solid foundation for a successful career in the marine industry .
Meghan Mitchell
Admissions and Marketing Manager , Great Lakes Boat Building School
Education : Bachelor of Arts from Grand Valley State University Years in the marine industry : 2.5 years What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry ? The biggest lesson I have learned is that people don ’ t know what they don ’ t know . The marine industry is a relatively unknown industry to a lot of people looking to get into the trades . In my role , I am connecting with people coming right out of high school , career changers , military veterans , retirees , and more . First , I am sharing what the marine industry has to offer and what career opportunities are available . If people have an interest in learning more after that initial connection , I work with them to discuss how they can get into the industry and how the skills learned at Great Lakes Boat Building School ( GLBBS ) can help them get into a great career . If people don ’ t know that the marine industry is even a viable option for them , they aren ’ t going to come to us . We need to meet people where they are in their career journey and show them where they can go . If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry , what would it be and why ? Honestly , I can ’ t choose just one . In my 2.5 years in this industry , I have gotten to be a part of so many great things . There are two things that I am incredibly proud of – Veteran Visit Day at Great Lakes Boat Building School and SURGE – Detroit River .
I love getting to work with veterans and one of my initial goals when starting at GLBBS was to make an active effort to connect with veterans looking to get into the industry or who may
Northpoint
Congratulates Director of Marketing Jill Howell And All The Outstanding 2024 “ Women Making Waves ”!
Northpoint Commercial Finance is proud to recognize our Director of Marketing Jill Howell for her selection among the “ Women Making Waves ” by the editors of Boating Industry magazine .
Jill is an integral part of Northpoint and has significantly contributed to our company ’ s culture , brand-building and continued growth . We congratulate Jill for this prestigious recognition , along with the entire class of 2024 “ Women Making Waves !”
866.781.2420 northpointcf . com
www . boatingindustry . com june 2024
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