CAPTAIN CHRIS DAY
Business Development and Training , RescueOne Connecter Boats
What was your first job ? I began my professional career with the Bartow County Sheriff ' s Department as a uniformed police officer . A short time later , I became a canine handler and trainer assigned to the Criminal Interdiction Unit . My scope of responsibility was diverse and included communications , high volume traffic stops , narcotics detection , FBI Safe Streets Task Force , special assignments , regulatory reporting , and care of canines . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? Throughout my life , I have had several mentors that have helped shape who I am today . But I would have to say the two people that have had the most influence on my career are Peg Phillips and Alan Dennison . They both have really shown me the importance of safety and take immense
pride in their careers . They have always been just a phone call away when in need . I always feel comfortable when coming to them whether it is about a sunken vessel , or a life jacket loaner station . They always take my call , which is unique in the business world . Their drive and love for what they do is something that you do not see often and just makes me prouder to call them my friends .
How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success ?
As an entrepreneur , it is my passion to build successful businesses . Since starting my boating profession , I have built and sold multiple businesses based on their revenue generating potential . With each business , I have learned what does not work and have adjusted my business model accordingly . I am passionate about promoting the boating lifestyle and being an advocate for safe boating behaviors . In business and in life , I live by the motto of Slow is Pro , Faster is Disaster . This has been a formula that has worked for me . Who was your hero as a child ? My Godfather , Rick Collum , had the greatest impact on my childhood . He had a law enforcement career and was
deeply devoted to his family and community . I learned a strong work ethic and the importance of family and faith from Rick . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? The marine industry offers such a variety of professional career opportunities from being a licensed captain to a deckhand , or marine mechanic . The atmosphere around boating is energizing , and the community is welcoming and eager to mentor the next generation .
RYAN DECHELLIS
VP of Finance , Liberty Technologies ( Pleasurecraft Engine Group , Indmar Marine Engines , Velvet Drive Transmissions )
What was your first job ? In high school , I cleaned rental boats at Port Royale Marina on Lake Lanier , Ga . If you ’ re interested in learning what snacks NOT bring on a boat , I ’ m your guy ! Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? Adopting the Correct Craft culture pyramid has had an im-
Brian Athmer — Harris Pontoons
Our people are the heart of Brunswick and what powers our innovation and growth . Our united team is transforming experiences on the water and beyond .
Congratulations to our exceptional group of driven individuals named as a 40 Under 40 award recipient by Boating Industry .
Your leadership inspires us all .
Charlie Foss — Brunswick Corporation
Mariah Lawrence — Freedom Boat Club of Tennessee
Kimberly Chapman — Navico Group / Brunswick Corporation
Karly Yuds — Mercury Marine
www . boatingindustry . com march 2024
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