TONYA JARED
MANAGER – DISTRIBUTION CENTER SALES AND OPERATIONS, HYDROHOIST / WATERFRONT BRANDS
Education: B. S. Degree in Interdisciplinary Studies( Accounting and Leadership Communication) from Tennessee Tech University Years in the marine industry: 21 years this August What first drew you to the marine industry? It was completely accidental. At 22, I was hired as a temp who was only supposed to be there for two weeks, and they just never let me leave! What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry? Simply doing what you say you will do, when you say you will do it, will make you stand out from the vast majority of the competition. Then, when you simply can’ t, be honest and communicate early and often. If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? For me, my most memorable achievements are the small moments that happen all the time. The best part of my job is inspiring my team to be the best at what they do by giving them the tools and, most importantly, the confidence in their abilities and seeing them have their own“ ah ha” moments and wins. Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? Why or why not? Resoundingly yes! The marine industry is one where, as soon as you get your footing, everything changes, and
you have to re-learn what you already thought you knew. Economic changes, new regulations, weather conditions, new technology and trends in the boat market can make the target seem like it is always moving. You have to learn the ability to pivot quickly. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? For me, leadership isn ' t about being the loudest voice in the room; it’ s about being the most reliable resource for your team and your dealers. I hope to inspire other women to trust their unique leadership styles. You can build incredible authority through clear communication, collaboration and a relentless focus on solving complex issues. When you deliver consistent results, you pave a smoother path for the next woman to step into a leadership role. What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? The female perspective is important; lean into that. In a field where, for decades, the male voice and perspective were dominant, there are segments and ideas that have been dismissed or overlooked entirely. As women in this field, we can bring a unique perspective, and we shouldn’ t shy away from it simply because it is sometimes different. What is your favorite place to go boating? Being born and raised in Middle Tennessee, we have so many beautiful lakes! However, my heart will always belong to Dale Hollow. I grew up going boating and camping there and have the best memories of my mom picking up my sister and me after school and taking us to the Obey River recreation area to swim until it got too dark to see. It’ s always special to be at the lake, but an impromptu trip on a random Tuesday just hit different. That ham and cheese sandwich, as you sat there exhausted, slightly pink from the sun, is to this day the best meal I have ever had. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? My husband Terry and I have a seventeen-year-old daughter, LillyAnne, who is super involved in dance, so the majority of my free time is spent watching her do what she loves. At night and on the weekends, you will find us cheering her on during halftime at football games, dance competitions and ballet recitals. Otherwise, I am reading anything that I can get my hands on!
HARLAN KEMPSON
VICE PRESIDENT OF PRODUCTION, SEA FOX BOAT COMPANY
Education: College of Charleston ' 14 Years in the marine industry: 6 years What first drew you to the marine industry? I honestly never thought I would end up working in the marine industry or in the family business itself. My heart is in education. I loved working in the school system in Charleston and building relationships with students and families. When the pandemic hit, I knew I needed to make a change. I went to my dad ' s office for lunch and mustered up the courage to ask him if he needed any help with Sea Fox. That day I started in the sales department- as the Sales Coordinator and a 4th generation Sea Fox boat builder. It came so naturally and I immediately fell in love with the work
24 june 2026 www. boatingindustry. com