myself Freedom Boat Club was the path I wanted to follow . I was good at my job , and I knew that my ideas and processes were good , so it was time to start sharing them ! Who was your hero as a child ? I grew up playing basketball and I always wanted to play for Pat Summitt . Not only because she was one of the best coaches in the world , but I just loved her story , her energy , and her approach to leadership . One of her best quotes that still follows me today is , “ Teamwork is what makes common people capable of uncommon results .” Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? Starting a career in the boating industry at a young age offers an exciting blend of fun , innovation , and cultural appeal . It ' s a dynamic field where passion for the water meets innovative technology and a vibrant lifestyle . Young professionals can dive into a world where every day feels like an adventure , surrounded by like-minded individuals who share a love for the outdoors and exploration . With opportunities for hands-on experience and creative thinking , the boating industry provides a unique platform for personal growth and professional fulfillment . It ' s not just a job ; it ' s a lifestyle worth exploring .
JEFF LITTLEFIELD
Marketing Manager , Regal Boats
What first drew you to the marine industry ? From go-karts , dirt bikes , motorcycles , and cars to lifted lawnmowers and ultimately boats , I have always enjoyed anything with a motor and a throttle . When an opportunity for an internship at Regal Boats arose as I graduated from college , I dove headfirst into it . Now , twelve years later , I remain deeply grateful to be part of this industry every day . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? As a dedicated learner , I ' ve been fortunate to have many influencers in my life . My parents instilled in me the importance of hard work , respect for others , and the perspective that in life , it ' s not about what happens to you but rather how you respond . Embarking on my career in the boating industry , I received invaluable guidance from the Kuck family at Regal Boats , who continue to share opportunities for learning each and every day . This ongoing personal development not only advances my career but also enriches my personal life , for which I am deeply thankful .
As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry , and how did you overcome them ?
My biggest challenges were also some of my most exciting opportunities . Starting in the industry young and inexperienced , fresh out of college , I had much to learn about the boating world . At the same time , the boating industry was in the early stages of a significant shift toward digital marketing mediums . This situation presented a multi-layered challenge : learning the business , fostering new ways of thinking , developing new processes and tools , and transitioning from a traditional marketing and advertising mindset to a digital-first approach . These challenges were a blessing , as there is no better way to learn than by being pushed out of your comfort zone . How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success ? For setting high-level goals within a year , I employ a decision-making framework inspired by the book ' One Word That Will Change Your Life .' At the beginning of each year , I select a single word to serve as a guiding principle for my
CONGRATULATIONS
Chaparral and Robalo are very excited about the future !
IAN KALINOWSKI Customer Service Manager
Chaparral / Robalo Boats
For 59 years at Chaparral and Robalo Boats , every model is built by expert craftsmen and distributed by the best world-wide dealer network .
While continuing to be at the front of the marine industry as market share leaders , a team of dedicated employees continue to introduce innovative products with forward thinking designs .
Ian Kalinowski has been Chaparral and Robalo ’ s Customer Service Manager for over 10 years . We are very proud of Ian for all of his dedication , hard work , and passion for outstanding customer service . Congratulations to Ian ! What lies ahead with the 40 under 40 shines bright in the marine industry .
QUALITY FIRST . LUXURY STANDARD .
Nashville , GA is home of the finest boat builders in the marine industry and the largest , single site , boat manufacturing plant in the world producing industry leading powerboats from 21-34 feet and sport fishing boats from 18-36 feet .
Visit online today to build the boat of your dreams and find a local authorized dealer .
WWW . CHAPARRALBOATS . COM WWW . ROBALO . COM www . boatingindustry . com march 2024
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