WOMEN MAKING WAVES
careers in the marine industry? Don’ t be intimidated or shy. Be confident and courageous. Don’ t be afraid to take risks and make mistakes. These mistakes and experiences will teach you lessons and skills that are essential in the learning process. Be adaptable to situations and honest to yourself. Lastly, find joy in the process and the product. It makes the job so much fun. What is your favorite place to go boating? We most frequently boat on the Tennessee River. However, our favorite spot is Norris Lake. The water is a beautiful blue and the lake day feelings are immaculate. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? My husband and I enjoy hiking, camping, hunting, gardening, golfing, and running. I am a lover of travel and I have challenged my husband to golf in all 50 states( so I can tag along too). I find lots of love in spending time with my dogs, we bring them almost everywhere with us.
Katie Hansen- Guichert
KATIE HANSEN-GUICHERT
SENIOR MANAGER, GLOBAL BUSINESS DEVELOPMENT, BOSTON WHALER
Education: Bachelor’ s in Business Administration with a concentration in International Business from Western Washington University, and a Global Executive MBA from Kedge Business School Years in the marine industry: 26 years this August Other companies you have worked for in the marine industry and titles you held at those companies:
Seven roles across sales, marketing, and customer service, spanning three divisions and nine global marine brands for Brunswick. My work has taken me to six offices across four countries, shaping a truly international perspective of the marine industry. What first drew you to the marine industry? I have a Scandinavian Viking heritage, so growing up in a sailing family gave me my sea-legs. My drive to see the world motivated me. Coincidentally, I landed my first job at U. S. Marine( division of Brunswick) because they were hiring someone for their international sales department. Having a concentration in International Business and a minor in Spanish, I wanted to apply my studies and language skills. I was lucky that the company was in such a fun industry and spoke to my heart. And more importantly, the people and the community and the idea of selling dreams that make lifetime memories for families around the world have kept me here. What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry? One of the biggest lessons I’ ve learned is the value of adaptability. It’ s served me well ― not just in moving across oceans and divisions, but also on the water itself. Whether at boat shows or in boardrooms, being prepared for all situations is key. It’ s important to know your audience, anticipate what might come up, and understand that unexpected challenges are part of the journey. And don’ t forget to make it fun. After all, we’ re in the business of creating lifetime memories. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? By being approachable and open to sharing stories, experiences, and guidance through challenges. I believe in the power of connection and mentorship, and I hope to create space for honest conversations that help others feel seen and supported. There are many successful women in the industry, and we should find more ways to come together ― not only to celebrate our collective impact, but also to champion greater representation. Whether it’ s getting more women on the water or behind the helm, we can show that this path is not only possible, but attainable for everyone.
What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? Support each other! Seek out mentors who can help you grow both professionally and personally. Advocate for one another, and don’ t forget to celebrate the wins, big and small, along the way. Be proactive, stay positive, and remain curious. And most importantly, enjoy the journey – you’ re the one at the helm! What is your favorite place to go boating? For year-round, closed-cabin cruising, I’ d choose my picturesque stomping grounds among the San Juan Islands. For day boating, it’ s hard to beat the French Riviera. Some of my favorite memories come from entertaining friends and family there ― picnics on deck, afternoon siestas under the sunshade, and swimming in the turquoise waters between Monaco and the Calanques of Cassis.
SUZANNE M. HAWLEY
BRAND MANAGER, GEMECO MARINE ELECTRONICS SPECIALISTS
Suzanne M. Hawley
Education: Associates of Arts and Sciences, Marketing Years in the marine industry: 34 Other companies you have worked for in the marine industry and titles you held at those companies: Owner of Hawley Communications and communication manager at Raytheon Marine Company / Raymarine U. S. What first drew you to the marine industry? I’ ve always loved watersports, boating, and
14 june 2025 www. boatingindustry. com