ALEXANDER O ’ NEILL
CEO & Co-founder , Nauta Ventures , Inc .
What was your first job ? Valeting cars at the Columns Hotel in New Orleans , Louisiana . What accomplishment are you most proud of ? Being the best friend , son , business partner and boyfriend - to all the most important in my life ! Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? Lee Mandel , Nauta ’ s CTO , Matt Fradette of Dockwa & The Wanderlust Group , and Jeff Scott – all 3 of them have believed in me and my vision since the earliest stages , and their guidance has been influential in Nauta ' s journey past , present , and future . How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry ? Although complex , innovation can exist . It can simplify what we all love about the industry and expand all that it has to offer to everyone who hasn ' t had the chance to experience it yet . How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success ? I think about my overarching goal , work backwards and break it up into smaller chunks that will help me get there . Who was your hero as a child ? Rafael Nadal . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? Our generation ' s love of technology can create so much awesome change in the marine ecosystem !
RYAN PARIS
President , Syntec Industries , LLC
What was your first job ? I started working with my dad at a young age as he managed a Chick-fil-A in Dalton , Georgia . I worked in several other areas through college from construction jobs , to residential landscape as well as at a couple different golf courses in various positions . However , my first “ real ” job was with AstroTurf , LLC , a synthetic turf company manufacturing and installing athletic fields . I spent over 12 years in the turf industry before I came to Syntec Industries . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? My journey into the world of business was shaped significantly by my father , whose unwavering commitment to excellence at his Chick-fil-A restaurant instilled in me a profound work ethic from a young age . Through his example , I learned the value of hard work , the importance of teamwork , and the significance of having a servant ’ s heart . While my career has introduced me to many inspiring individuals , it is the influential leaders within my own family who have left the most indelible mark on my professional trajectory . From my father , to my father-in-law , uncle-in-law , late grandfather-in-law , and elder brother , each has imparted invaluable wisdom and guidance , serving as pillars of leadership in my life . Their exemplary conduct continues to inspire me , shaping both my character and career aspirations . As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them ?
Navigating the marine industry as a young professional has presented its share of challenges , foremost among them being the cultivation of meaningful relationships within this tight-knit community . Recognizing the paramount importance of these connections , I ' ve endeavored to bridge the gap between my newcomer status and the established networks that have long defined the industry ’ s landscape . Fortunately , I ' ve been privileged to have
mentors and leaders like Bill Watters , DJ Cross , and other esteemed colleagues within our Syntec Team , who boast extensive experience and deep-rooted relationships within the industry . Their guidance and generosity have afforded me invaluable opportunities to integrate myself into these networks , facilitating my growth and fostering collaborative partnerships essential for success in this dynamic field . Who was your hero as a child ? My hero is undoubtedly my Dad . His unwavering work ethic served as a guiding light , instilling in me the importance of diligence and dedication in every endeavor . Whether it was excelling in sports or academics , he imparted the invaluable lesson that effort directly correlates with results . Yet , amidst his commitment to hard work , my Dad always prioritized faith and family above all else . He led by example , demonstrating the significance of placing God and loved ones at the forefront of life ' s journey . An avid reader himself , he emphasized the lifelong pursuit of knowledge , a lesson I initially overlooked , but now strive to embrace . His timeless advice to " never stop learning " and to remember “ who you are and who ’ s you are ” continues to resonate with me , shaping my values and aspirations to this day . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? For young professionals seeking a fulfilling career that aligns with their love for the outdoors and the water , the marine industry offers an unparalleled opportunity . Beyond the thrill of being on and around the water , this field allows individuals to create pathways for others to share in that same joy and adventure . What sets this industry apart is the sense of camaraderie and mutual respect that goes beyond competition . While success is a shared goal , there ' s a genuine passion for preserving and enhancing the marine environment . Whether it ' s providing access to waterways or fostering enjoyment of the oceans , there ' s a collective www . boatingindustry . com march 2024
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