WOMEN MAKING WAVES
Tiffany Walker
What first drew you to the marine industry? I was first introduced to the marine industry when I met my now-husband while working at my first boat dealership. What started as just a job quickly became something much more meaningful. The boating industry not only brought me a career ― it created the foundation of my family. Since then, it has been at the center of our lives. If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? One of my most memorable experiences was becoming a Master Certified Technician so I could better support our service team when needed. I took pride in stepping up, especially when manufacturer service bulletins were released. I had my husband take me dock-to-dock so I could personally address these issues for our clients and minimize the impact on their boating experience.
It was a true“ girl power” moment every time I was the one jumping off the boat to make the repairs. Being able to step in, get my hands dirty, and directly help our customers reminded me why I love this industry ― it ' s about dedication, teamwork, and doing whatever it takes to support the people we serve. Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? Yes, it definitely had its challenges. My husband has been in the industry for over 17 years, so in the beginning, it was difficult to step out of his shadow and establish my own path. Building relationships based on my own reputation rather than being seen as an extension of his was something I had to work hard to achieve.
Additionally, leading a service department as a woman in a role that is traditionally male dominated brought its own set of obstacles. It’ s not the norm, and at times that meant I had to prove myself more than others. But those experiences pushed me to grow, and I’ m proud of the respect I’ ve earned and the work I’ ve done to help shift expectations in this industry. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? I hope to inspire other women by showing that it’ s possible to succeed and lead in roles that have traditionally been male dominated. I want women to see that they belong in every part of this industry. By staying confident, working hard, and leading with integrity, I hope to break down barriers and create more space for women to grow, lead, and be respected ― not just for showing up, but for the quality of their work and the value they bring. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? I enjoy watching a good baseball game and reading psychological thrillers. I also spend time journaling in my Bible, which helps me grow and reflect spiritually. And when time allows ― and if my kids choose to hang out with me ― you can usually find me crushing them in a board game.
MARLEE YOMMER
PARTS MANAGER & SERVICE WRITER, HARBORSIDE MARINA
Education: Bachelor’ s degree in business management Years in the marine industry: 4 years What first drew you to the marine industry? I kind of fell into this job, although I love being on the water. It’ s cool to be in a maledominated industry and prove that I’ m just as good at this. What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry? Discipline and efficiency are essential, and it’ s so important to pay attention to even the smallest details.
Marlee Yommer
If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? Really being able to fulfill the need for my role and feeling like I’ m indispensable here. Also, completing the Spader Parts and Service Manager training was a big milestone for me. Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? I don’ t find it difficult to navigate a career where I am at. I have a great support system within my company. However, it does become difficult when facing stereotypes and assumptions that I am not the person to get the information from. I’ ve worked hard to prove myself and show that I belong here. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? By being a good example of what a woman in marine service can accomplish with the right attitude. I love my job, and I learn something new every day. What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? Speak up for yourself and stay confident in what you’ re doing. Don’ t ever be afraid to ask a question. What is your favorite place to go boating? Mystic, Connecticut. It’ s beautiful and always a great place to get out on the water. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? Reading books, exercising, and enjoying new places with my pup.
www. boatingindustry. com june 2025
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