that is innovating new ways to assist the customer or streamlining internal processes , creativity helps all of us . How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success ? Setting goals is always a moving target for me . In this economic climate , making predictions is getting more and more difficult . Focusing on daily improvements means I will at least be better than I was the day before . Where is your favorite place to go boating ? My favorite place to go boating will always be Lake Lanier . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? Young professionals should choose a career in the marine industry because it is one of the few industries where face to face communication , customer training and trust outweigh speed of sales process . There is just so much room for growth and continuous improvement here .
Jason Baumgartner
Operations Manager , Riverside Marine
What first drew you to the marine industry ? It ’ s in my blood . I had countless hours on the water and behind the helm before I could drive a car . Boating is a lifestyle and a heritage in our family , so being drawn to the marine industry at a young age was natural . It gave me the ability to get paid to be on the water and work on boats every day .
What accomplishment are you most proud of ? Due to Covid , our winter boat show was cancelled , not postponed , leaving our market without a winter show . I am the vice president of our local marine trades – Marine Trades Association of Baltimore County , and we decided to spearhead a new show at a new venue . I was on the operating committee along with the duty of show coordinator where I handled logistics of the show move in and move out . We are coming off our second year with the show with resounding success . In our second year , the boat show was 100 % rented . The show included over 30 dealers and 80 booth vendors . The success of the show allows the MTABC to give back to our local boating community . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? My dad was and is my key mentor in my career . He ’ s the president of Riverside Marine and worked here since 1976 . He has been through many ups and downs in the marine industry , so when I need to pick someone ’ s brain , he ’ s my go-to guy . However , he typically doesn ’ t give me answers on how to do things , but rather different vantage points to help me come to the best solution on my own . I owe much of my critical thinking skills to his mentoring over the years . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? If you are passionate about the water and the lifestyle associated with it , you can find a rewarding career in almost any type of job in the marine industry . Salespeople , technicians , engineers designing boats , CNC operators cutting custom flooring , marketing personnel doing a walkthrough on a new model , bookkeepers keeping your debits and credits in order , boat captain to run charters , etc . You couldn ’ t ask for a better opportunity to find a career you enjoy in a field you are passionate about !
Merrill Charette
Co-Founder & CEO , Shipshape Pro
What first drew you to the marine industry ? While marine wasn ' t initially part of my plan , as I began to immerse myself in the field , I realized that there was a significant opportunity for innovation . Much of the marine industry appeared to be outdated and ripe for change . This realization led me to believe that the marine industry is uniquely positioned to create a massive impact on the world , perhaps more so than any other industry . What accomplishment are you most proud of ? For me , one of the greatest personal accomplishments is being able to enlighten and educate others within the marine industry . Whenever I have the opportunity to share my knowledge and expertise with someone or provide them with a better understanding of the industry , it brings me great satisfaction . I believe that education is key to driving progress and creating positive change , and I am always looking for ways to contribute to this goal . I strive to help people better understand the marine industry and the value it brings to our world . I am passionate about promoting adaptability , sustainability and economic freedom within the industry , and I believe that education is a critical component of achieving these goals . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? I have been fortunate to have many individuals who have gone out of their way to uplift and support me . Among them is my father , who instilled in me a strong work ethic that has been invaluable to my success . Another who had a significant impact on my career is Carl Blackwell , who connected me with many leaders within the marine industry and served as a real spark for my growth . It is important to note that my success is not solely the result of individual effort . Rather , it is a testament to the strength of my team and the support I have received from many individuals throughout my career . I am grateful for their guidance and support .
www . boatingindustry . com march 2023
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