cidental. When possible, we formalize development into measurable benchmarks, so improvement is intentional. Discipline, reflection, and mentorship also play a role. Success in the marine industry requires creativity, but it also requires operational rigor. What boat did you learn to boat on? Technically, I first learned on my Opa’ s paddle boat. I spent many summers on it, and that is where I first understood the rhythm of being on the water. My first real youth boating learning experience came on a Hartley TS16 daysailer. It taught me patience, wind awareness and respect for conditions. After that, I continued my learning on a Bayliner cruiser, which introduced me to powered boating and navigation in a different way. Where is your favorite place to go boating? I have had the opportunity to boat in different parts of the world, and I am grateful for that perspective. Still, some of my favorite waters are right here in Ontario. Through my role in marketing, I spend time on the water in Sudbury, which holds a special place for me both professionally and personally. Northern Ontario lakes have a unique character that reminds you why boating matters. Who was your hero as a child? Both of my parents played a defining role in shaping who I am. My mother was a teacher and instilled in me the importance of listening carefully and understanding context before responding. My father is a Canadian Army veteran and former United Nations Senior Security Official. From him, I learned how to assess situations objectively, identify root causes and focus on practical solutions. Together, they shaped both sides of how I operate today. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? Photography is one of my main hobbies, particularly visual ethnography. I am drawn to documenting how people live, interact and express culture through everyday moments. It allows me to observe details others may overlook and understand stories without words.
I also enjoy learning. Whether it is new technology, behavioral trends or global perspectives, I value staying curious. For me, hobbies are less about escape and more about sharpening how I see and understand the world. Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry? The marine industry offers something rare. It combines lifestyle, technical innovation, community impact and real economic opportunity. This is an industry where your work directly connects to meaningful experiences. You are not selling a disposable product. You are contributing to family traditions, first milestones, and time spent outdoors. That sense of purpose matters.
ALEX HARLOW
SERVICE FOREMAN & LEAD MARINE TECHNICIAN, HARBORSIDE MARINA & YACHT SALES
What first drew you to the marine industry? I grew up fishing in Maine with my grandfather and father, and that’ s really what started it. Being around boats at a young age made me interested in how they worked and what it took to keep them running. I always liked working with my hands and figuring things out, so getting into the marine industry felt like a natural fit. What was your first job? My first job was working as a greenskeeper at a country club during my senior year of high school. What accomplishments are you most proud of? Becoming Service Foreman at Harborside Marina at a young age is something I’ m really proud of. It showed me that the hard work I’ ve put in and the skills I’ ve built were recognized and trusted. Taking on that role meant more responsibility, not just for my own work, but helping guide other technicians and keeping things running smoothly. It pushed me to step up and grow, both technically and professionally. Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career? My grandfather, father, and uncle were my biggest influences early on. They taught me how to work with my hands and the importance of having a strong work ethic. They also showed me the value of figuring things out yourself and taking pride in your work. Professionally, Mike G. from Mercury has also been a great mentor. He has a wide range of knowledge and is always willing to help, which showed me the importance of continuing to learn and becoming wellrounded as a technician. As a young professional, what are the biggest challenges you’ ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them? One of the biggest challenges is dealing with corrosion, frozen parts and systems that don’ t come apart easily, especially in saltwater environments. Electrical and wiring issues can also be complex. I’ ve overcome those challenges by learning from mentors, attending training and gaining experience over time. Sometimes you must figure things out the hard way, but each job builds more knowledge and confidence. Over time, those challenges helped me become a stronger and more capable technician. How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry? I hope to inspire others by sharing my knowledge and helping newer technicians develop their skills. This industry depends on people who are willing to learn and improve. I try to lead by example and be someone others can come to with questions. Helping others grow not only benefits them but strengthens the entire team. I think it’ s important to support the next generation of technicians, so the industry continues to move forward. How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success? I focus on becoming more efficient and improving my skills with every job. As foreman, part of my role is supporting lower-level techs, answering questions and helping them work through challenges so they can improve. I also try to stay proactive by identifying issues early before they become bigger problems. Helping the team improve overall leads to more consistent, reliable service for our customers. What boat did you learn to boat on? A 17-foot Bass Tracker.
18 march 2026 www. boatingindustry. com