WOMEN MAKING WAVES tion and delivering service in a timely manner. Through the constantly evolving industry and their enthusiasm, our marine customers have taught us strong resilience and passion. If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? I have had many opportunities throughout my career to manage diverse teams resulting in the launching of new projects and portfolios, but nothing has made me prouder than a satisfied customer. Whether it’ s finding a solution to a specific need or gaining the trust of a new customer, building strong foundations for longterm relationships is always a privilege. Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? From my perspective, the marine industry seeks personalized customer experience. They look for trust and loyalty. It’ s never been an issue to establish meaningful connections with them and engage in open communication despite economic downturns. The key elements in building my career can be summarized by adaptability and commitment to listening and learning from experience. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? Be a champion of celebrating accomplishments, making sure ideas are heard and recognize contributions. I’ d like to push women to take on new challenges and opportunities and believe in their ability to succeed. Let’ s take on leadership roles and be a model and offer guidance and network opportunities. What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? Be flexible and make sure your work-life balance is strong. Let’ s encourage each other and provide feedback. Become experts and remain open and positive. What is your favorite place to go boating? Exploring the East Coast of Canada is always a special treat, but nothing beats a day on the water with my family in the Mont- Tremblant area.
TERRI SCHNEIDER
BUSINESS OPERATIONS MANAGER, REVEL BOATS
Education: MBA, Florida Southern College and Marketing, University of Central Florida
Terri Schneider
Years in the marine industry: 21 years Other companies you have worked for in the marine industry and titles you held at those companies: Marketing assistant, PR and communications coordinator, marketing coordinator, and senior marketing communications coordinator at Nautique Boat Company, strategic analyst at Correct Craft, manager of programs at Watershed Innovations, and manager of programs at Correct Craft. What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned in the marine industry? There are so many lessons learned. Early in my career, it was learning to keep a 30,000- foot view, as our CEO would remind me in our weekly marketing meetings. Another one was self-awareness. I was never one to care what people thought until I realized that the higher you went, the more it mattered. Then, learning to manage people when you have high expectations. The hardest lesson by far is to seek to understand first, especially when you are a natural problem solver. I ' m not sure how that one hasn’ t gotten me into trouble. Lastly, always trust your gut; it’ s not wrong, but saying that means things take time and may not be on your timetable. If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? My most significant achievement recently was the birth of a new brand in the pontoon segment, Revel Boats. It was a once-in-alifetime opportunity to build a business plan and then accept a new position with areas of
responsibility that are brand new for me. It’ s been a lot of fun, and I’ m grateful I leaped at the opportunity. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? By being authentic, attending industry events, and speaking up to give others courage. Plenty of us are more than willing to mentor, lend an ear, grab coffee, or do whatever is needed. We are in this together. I’ m grateful to ladies like Angela Pilkington, Amy Mauzy, and Natalie Carrera. What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? Find a mentor, but more importantly, make sure the company you work for aligns with your values and morals. It makes a difference. What is your favorite place to go boating? My top place is lobstering in Key West where I go on my yearly trip. Now that I’ ve moved to East Tennessee, I can’ t wait to explore. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? My heart lies with my alma mater, the UCF Knights, so I enjoy football and basketball games. I am also the College of Business Alumni Chair, and I have the opportunity to mentor the next generation. Go Knights! I also enjoy the outdoors, staying healthy and fit, and learning more about holistic health practices.
LANA BOSTIC SINCLAIR
TRANSPORTATION SUPERVISOR, CHAPARRAL & ROBALO BOATS
Education: High School Graduate Years in the marine industry: 35 years What first drew you to the marine industry? My father, Freeman( Buddy) Bostic, introduced me to the marine industry at an early age as he built his career, retiring after 31 years as director of manufacturing for Chaparral and Robalo Boats. His passion for building high quality boats and excitement about new boat models left a lasting impression on me. At 18, I joined the company he loved and gained valuable experience in various departments, eventually transitioning to the transportation department. Today, I share his excitement with my family, proudly pointing out our products as we pass dealerships, spot them on the water, or see them being transported.
www. boatingindustry. com june 2025
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