CARLY WARREN
DIRECTOR OF MEMBER SERVICES, FREEDOM BOAT CLUB- GREATER BOSTON & CAPE COD / OCEAN & MONMOUTH COUNTY NJ / OHIO / PITTSBURGH
What first drew you to the marine industry? Growing up I spent summers on a lake with family boating, tubing, etc. Being on and around the water has always been a happy place of mine and somewhere I enjoy spending my free time. Being able to work in the marine industry allows me to share the beauty of the water with others.
What was your first job? My first job was in retail at a sports store, where I quickly discovered how much I enjoyed interacting with people from all walks of life. That experience taught me the value of strong communication, adaptability and building genuine connections, skills that have continued through my career. What accomplishments are you most proud of? During Freedom Boat Club’ s network wide rollout of a new membership operating system, I was honored at the company’ s global conference as the leading contributor out of 300 team members. Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career? One of my key mentors throughout my career has been Kevin Frattura, Senior VP of Sales & Service for the New York Giants. He believed in me early on when I began working in the NFL and has continued to support my growth as I’ ve navigated new challenges and career transitions. 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 I faced entering the marine industry was stepping into it without a traditional marine background. When I joined four years ago, I had to quickly learn the terminology, operations and unique customer expectations unique. I overcame that challenge by fully immersing myself in the business, asking questions and taking advantage of the strong support from our management team. Their guidance helped me build both technical knowledge and confidence. How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry? I hope to inspire others in the marine industry by showing that there are many impactful career paths beyond being out on the water. The industry encompasses operations, systems, leadership, customer experience and so much more. I didn’ t begin my career in boating, but through growth and opportunity, I found a place where my skills truly aligned. Today, I can’ t imagine being anywhere else, and I hope my journey encourages others to see the wide range of possibilities this industry offers.
How do you set goals for yourself and set yourself up for success? I set goals for myself by first understanding the broader objectives of the organization and where I can create the most impact. From there, I break those priorities down into clear, achievable steps that align with both team success and long-term growth. What boat did you learn to boat on? Growing up I would take turns driving my uncle’ s boat. Now that I am in the marine industry, I am lucky enough to learn on a variety of boats. Where is your favorite place to go boating? My favorite place to go boating is in the Boston Harbor, I love being under the planes when they are landing at Logan Airport. Who was your hero as a child? My heroes are my parents. They modeled resilience and adaptability as our family navigated significant changes, including moving overseas when I was young. Watching how they handled uncertainty with strength and grace shaped the way I approach change in my own life. Their example taught me to remain flexible, confident and grounded, no matter the circumstances, qualities that continue to guide me both personally and professionally. What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? My favorite non-boating hobbies are being on the sports fields with my kids watching them compete and doing what they love to do. Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry? The marine industry offers an incredible range of career opportunities, from operations and sales to technology, marketing and leadership. What makes it especially unique is the shared love for the water whether it’ s boating, fishing or simply being outdoors. For young professionals looking for meaningful work, growth potential and an industry driven by experience and enjoyment, I would recommend the marine industry to anyone.
VALERIE WINDSOR
DIRECTOR OF HUMAN RESOURCES, MALIBU BOATS, INC.
What first drew you to the marine industry? The people and the purpose were what initially attracted me to the marine industry. This field focuses on delivering memorable moments, connecting families and
www. boatingindustry. com march 2026
39