FORTY UNDER FORTY
Who was your hero as a child ? My parents and grandparents . They taught me about manners , values , and humility . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? Being able to work in an industry that brings families and friends together is second to none . The diverse opportunities the industry has to offer allows something that fits everyone .
KIMBERLY CHAPMAN
Manager – Global Public Relations & Communications , Navico Group
What was your first job ? In high school I worked in the milkshake stand at Knaus Berry Farm , which is a shop in my hometown that sells fresh produce , baked goods and sweets .
Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ?
Maria Pierson . She is the CEO of Pierson Grant Public Relations agency . I interned at the agency in college and then she hired me full time when I graduated . I was lucky enough to work with her for seven years . She is an excellent teacher and provided me with many opportunities to learn and grow professionally . I am very fortunate to have had such a great mentor at the start of my career . As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them ? This is a small , close-knit industry with relationships that go back decades . Having little knowledge of the industry when I first joined , I was worried I would have trouble establishing connections and finding my place . I made it a point to reach out to as many people as I could and immerse myself in our products and the industry . Because of that , I ’ ve been able to foster some great relationships with people both in and out of my company . How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry ? I hope that I can be an example to others in the industry , especially newcomers , by showing the importance of continuous learning . I believe a collaborative environment where colleagues feel empowered to ask questions and share insights will help us all grow and drive the industry forward . I am lucky enough to work with some of the greatest people who have helped me along the way , and I hope I can do the same for others . Who was your hero as a child ? My parents . They have shown me the value of hard work and have always provided me with unconditional love and support .
Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? It ’ s a fun industry . We get to help people create new memories on the water . It ’ s also filled with very passionate people who love what they do . The positive energy is infectious and makes everyday exciting .
ZACHARY COMMEAU
Regional Environmental Health and Safety Manager , Safe Harbor Marinas
What first drew you to the marine industry ? When I was younger my grandmother would show me pictures of my grandfather ’ s racing boat , I was always told that my grandfather and I were very similar with our interests and goals . Going into high school when given the opportunity to pick a trade shop I had no hesitation in choosing the Marine Tech program . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? Kevin Spillane has taught me so much during our years working together , He took me under his wing and helped me develop not only professionally but on a personal level as well . For that I am forever grateful for his support . As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them ? A difficult challenge I have faced is the ability to convey a message as a younger individual to and older peer . I overcame this challenge by approaching the situation not as a manger but as a peer trying to make sure they return home in the same condition they went to work in . Who was your hero as a child ? My mother has always been my hero because she embodies resilience , compassion , and unwavering love . She always puts our family ' s well-being above her own . Her selflessness , strength , and endless support inspires me to overcome obstacles and strive for greatness . She is the epitome of grace under pressure and the anchor that keeps our family together . My admiration for her knows no bounds , and I am endlessly grateful for her presence in my life . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? I believe young professionals should explore the marine trade because of the incredible job diversity the trade has to offer . From mechanics and engineering to conservation and biology , the marine trade is a versatile and unique industry .
KYLE COOK
Marine OEM Applications Engineer , Volvo Penta
What first drew you to the marine industry ? I was born and raised in Neodesha , Kansas , a small town that serves as the headquarters for Cobalt Boats , so the marine industry is in my DNA . My father , Mike Cook , has been with Cobalt Boats for 35 years , and my older brother , Michael Cook , for 25 years , so I naturally followed in their footsteps . Since then , the marine industry and working for Volvo Penta have continued to allow me to do the things I am passionate about — working with engines and control systems . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? My uncle Floyd Wasson was a substantial influence in the early stages of my career as an automotive technician . Without his guidance , I wouldn ’ t have gained the extensive skill set and knowledge that prepared me to enter the marine industry .
Niles Schurle of Cobalt Boats , who I spent a great deal of time with on boats doing product testing and development .
Tim Mayville ( Volvo Penta ) always has great insight into the marine industry and helped me further develop my career as I transitioned to Volvo Penta .
Jason Turner ( Cobalt Boats ) pushed me to further my education and certifications within the marine industry while instilling a confidence and drive to keep learning . As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them ? Not only am I a younger person in the industry , but I also have the hurdle of being without a college degree . I have had to work harder to earn my seat at the table and prove myself , continually striving to build confidence in my team and other industry peers to develop trust . Who was your hero as a child ? My father , Mike Cook , and stepfather , Ron Quanstrom . Without these two people , I wouldn ’ t have made it this far . They have always pushed me to be the best I can be and have been my biggest cheerleaders . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? The marine industry is full of opportunities . There are so many specialties one can focus on , including technical work , sales , engineering , marketing and more . Don ’ t feel intimidated when entering this industry because there are so many wonderful people who will be more than happy to share knowledge and show leadership to help you grow .
16 march 2024 www . boatingindustry . com