FORTY UNDER FORTY
understand a topic ; just ask . Maintain an insatiable curiosity and adopt a child-like approach by asking “ why ?”. Who was your hero as a child ? My Dad . He ’ s an extremely hard worker , taught me to never sit and watch someone else work - get up and help . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? It ’ s simply fun . We spend all week dealing with boats that everybody else is daydreaming about using on the weekend .
RUSS TOMLINSON
President , Sportsman Boats & Phenom Yachts
What first drew you to the marine industry ? The allure of the marine industry stemmed from multiple factors . First , the chance to work with my father-in-law and industry visionary , Tommy Hancock , offered invaluable mentorship and insight to learn from the best . Second , being involved in a family business provides a sense of legacy and belonging . Additionally , the prospect of joining a startup at its ’ inception was attractive despite the anticipated challenges and demanding hours . This opportunity promised exposure to all disciplines of the business and facilitated accelerated learning while allowing me to play a pivotal role in the development of the company . 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 presents numerous challenges ! One of the biggest can be the management of seasoned employees , often older and more experienced . Overcoming the initial skepticism and proving oneself in a leadership role can be intimidating , especially when following in the footsteps of an industry legend . Making tough personnel decisions , including implementing changes and adjustments , can strain personal relationships built through hard work . However , recognizing the necessity for such actions and maintaining a focus on the business ' s needs above personal sentiments is essential . Overcoming these challenges demands resilience , effective communication , and a commitment to proving one ' s worth through actions and results , ultimately earning respect and credibility within the organization . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? Young professionals should consider a career in the marine industry for the abundant opportunities and incredible leadership within . Despite healthy competition , the industry fosters collaboration rather than cutthroat rivalry . This environment is conducive to personal and professional growth . I also believe it is crucial for aspiring professionals to align themselves with organizations that uphold similar values and standards that resonate with their own beliefs . Additionally , seeking out companies committed to investing in their business and fostering growth ensures ample opportunities for advancement , development and a fulfilling career path .
KARLY YUDS
Vice President – Procurement , Mercury Marine
What was your first job ? After graduating from college , I took a supply chain role in a manufacturing company . I traveled to many different manufacturing facilities and worked on supply chain system integration . I also worked on several acquisition and ERP implementation teams . I am grateful for the hands-on manufacturing experience early in my career . As a young professional , what are the biggest challenges you ’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them ? The marine industry can be intimidating . Although I grew up around boating , my role at Mercury was my first experience in the marine industry . I have found that being curious , asking questions , and putting in the effort to understand the product has been helpful . I have also been lucky to have a great network of support around me and people who truly want me to do well . My managers have encouraged me to have mentors and have provided me opportunities to learn about different areas in the business . Who was your hero as a child ? My parents are my heroes . My dad has always been there for me – at every school event and every game . He shows unconditional support , has always been my biggest fan and is now showing the same support for my children . My mother has always been a business owner , so I ’ ve had the amazing opportunity to watch her grow and build successful businesses . I am so proud of her determination , hard work , and resilience . She has taught me to never give up and to dig in when times are tough . She made growing businesses , leading teams , and balancing home responsibilities look easy . The older I get , the more I respect and look up to her . She has passion to succeed and willingness to keep learning . I often think about her journey and how lucky I am to have her as role model . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ?
The marine industry is exciting to be a part of . There is unmatched passion for the lifestyle and our products . There is a fast pace of innovation and many opportunities to learn something new and contribute in a meaningful way . I truly believe the people and the teams that I work with everyday are the best around .
ANDREW ZACCARDI
Applications & Test Engineer , Siren Marine / Yamaha Motor Corporation , U . S . A .
What was your first job ? My first job in high school was driving the launch shuttle for Mary ’ s Landing - a small fuel dock / mooring coordinator on the North River in town . I had so much fun when I was working that job , most of my day consisted of ferrying people to and from their boats . It was always great to chat with folks during the ride , whether they were excited to get on the water and go fishing , or just getting back from anchoring their boat off the beach at the end of the river . Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career ? My father , Peter , is far and away my greatest mentor and influence . He is a contractor and homebuilder , and I spent a lot of my time in high school and college working on different projects with him . He taught me so much about his trade , but more importantly he instilled his work ethic , and problem-solving skills in me , two traits that have certainly helped get me to where I am today .
My manager at Siren Marine , Marc Legault , is an incredibly important mentor and influence . Marc has taught me so much over the last couple of years- both about my career and myself . He has been an incredible person to bounce ideas off , solve complex problems with , and always brings a sense of humor into work with him .
Another person I need to mention is Dan MacIntyre , my manager when I was in San Diego . Dan taught me most everything that I know about boating , helped shape my troubleshooting technique , and prepared me for my captain ’ s license exams . Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry ? I think one of my favorite parts of working as a young adult in the marine industry is that the people you work with are so passionate about the boating world . The customers that you get the chance to work with , and a lot of the time your colleagues , are all so invested in boating and it creates an environment where people bring a lot of great energy to the table .
30 march 2024 www . boatingindustry . com