WOMEN MAKING WAVES
Stephanie Despreaux
marine industry. From working in the office as a teenager to joining them at IMTEC during college, I developed a deep, lasting connection to the marine industry. After graduating from Florida State University, I returned home to South Florida and naturally gravitated toward the marine world. I
took a keen interest in a hydrographic company my family owned, manufacturing dash panels for boat builders. What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry? I’ ve learned that excellent communication is the foundation of any successful business, both with your customers and within your team. Building a great team is critical, and success often comes from being flexible, thinking outside the box, and investing in relationships. I believe growth happens through genuine connections and hard work. If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? I’ ve been proud to play a role in leading Pacer as it expanded from a longstanding focus on the marine OEM industry into marine aftermarket. Over the last four years, we’ ve worked to develop and grow Pacer’ s aftermarket product line, a challenging and rewarding process that’ s opened exciting new opportunities for the company and
strengthened our ties to the marine industry. Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? When I started in the marine industry, there were far fewer women in the field, yet I never saw that as an obstacle. I’ ve always found this industry to be supportive, and I’ m grateful to the mentors and colleagues, men and women, who guided, encouraged, and inspired me along the way. I am fortunate to work for a company that has many women in leadership roles. It’ s important to me to pay that forward, offering support to other women building their careers in this industry. What is your favorite place to go boating? The water is one of my favorite places to be. With my husband, daughter, and close friends, we enjoy fishing, diving, and exploring by boat. Of all the places we’ ve ventured, the Abaco Islands hold a special place in my heart. We also love offshore fishing in South Florida, navigating the backcountry of the 10,000 Islands in the Everglades, and making crossings to the Bahamas.
Katie Hansen—
Senior Manager of Global Business Development Boston Whaler
Brunswick is proud to celebrate our three inspiring leaders named 2025 Women Making Waves honorees. These women are transforming the industry through their commitment to our Next Never Rests mentality. This recognition is a testament to their incredible achievements.
Congratulations and thank you.
Michelle Demeti—
Membership Experience Director Freedom Boat Club
Carolina Camps—
Regional Sales Manager Brunswick Boat Group Netherlands
www. boatingindustry. com june 2025
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