challenging times was when I first moved back to join the company. I was young( mid-20s), and it took a while for some of our regular customers to take me seriously, as they were accustomed to working with my dad for so many years. How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? I hope to inspire other women in the marine industry by showing that there is a place for us at every level of the field, from hands-on technical roles to leadership positions. Every summer we employ local high school and college students as dock hands, and it is always a mix of young men and women. For many, it is their first job, and we work hard to instill a strong work ethic, attention to detail and the importance of quality customer service in each of them. What is your favorite place to go boating? My favorite place to go boating is our lake ― Bull Shoals Lake. The water is clean and clear, and the lake’ s protected shoreline helps preserve its natural beauty, allowing locals and visitors alike to enjoy the outdoors in its purest form. My second favorite place to go boating is the Florida Keys and / or the Bahamas. My husband and I were married in Islamorada, and my parents have a second home and a boat there. We have been fortunate to spend a lot of time in both the Keys and the Bahamas boating, fishing, snorkeling and scuba diving. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? I enjoy watching Mizzou football, chasing my teenage kids around to their various sporting events and other activities, traveling, hosting friends and family at our home and walking outdoors.
JUSTINE WALLACE
REGIONAL SALES MANAGER, BENNINGTON PONTOONS
Education: Bachelors in Sport and Recreation Management Years in the marine industry: 16 years Other companies you have worked for in the marine industry and titles you held within those companies:
Wilson Marine- Sales Manager / Brokerage & Used Boat Manager, Administration and Sales Wonderland Marine West- Sales Skipper Buds- Sales Manager What first drew you to the marine industry? What first drew me to the industry was my love for the water and the memories created for my family. Growing up, my family lived near Wilson Marine in Michigan, and I was always drawn to the boats they had on display ― especially a blue metal flake Paddlewheeler that completely captured my attention as a kid. When the opportunity came to work a summer job in administration at Wilson Marine, I jumped at the chance. At the time, I had no idea that accepting that summer position would ultimately shape my life and career. Looking back now, it feels like I was always meant to be part of this industry. I am incredibly
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