Boating Industry September/October 2025 | Page 12

JEREMIAH BURKE

2025

BOLD MOVES

The boating industry is full of dedicated, talented leaders, and Boating Industry ' s Movers & Shakers program highlights those who push the boundaries. The 2025 winners have demonstrated how vision and determination can transform businesses for the better while turning bold ideas into reality.
These six trailblazers are making Bold Moves to propel the industry ahead. From working with local governments to embracing new technologies, they have shown unwavering commitment to creating meaningful progress. Boating Industry celebrates each of these leaders and the impact they make.
JEREMIAH BURKE
Regional Vice President, NH, Goodhue Boat Company
Known for his hands-on, forwardthinking leadership, Jeremiah Burke balances day-to-day operational needs with long-term strategies that drive growth, strengthen teams and elevate customer experiences across Goodhue’ s locations.
“ The most important mindset I try to live by is humility,” Burke said.“ I’ ve been fortunate to work with people who trust me, challenge me and teach me. Over the years, I’ ve learned that leadership isn’ t about being the loudest voice in the room. It’ s about listening well, showing up early and being willing to do any job when no one else is around. I also try to stay teachable. The moment I think I have it all figured out is usually the moment I miss something important. I’ ve made plenty of mistakes, and I’ ve learned that the best thing you can do is own them without excuses. That builds trust and keeps you moving forward.”
As VP of the New Hampshire Marine Trades Association, Burke has become an advocate for workforce development. By collaborating with technical schools, he has helped build marine technician programs that create clear career pathways into the marine trades. While this ensures a steady pipeline of talent for dealerships, it also helps reshape perceptions of marine careers, making them more attractive to the next generation.
Within Goodhue, Burke fosters a work environment that encourages growth and learning. His emphasis on training and process improvement has strengthened operations, improved efficiency and reinforced a customerfirst mindset that keeps satisfaction scores high.
“ I believe in leading by example,” Burke said.“ That might mean firing up the grill for 150 guests or helping a stranded customer late at night. I never ask anyone to do something I wouldn’ t do. Trust is earned in the small, everyday moments, like showing up prepared, staying late when needed, and being consistent. To me, real leadership is measured by whether people follow you not because they have to, but because they want to.”
He has been instrumental in navigating broader industry challenges, from labor shortages to shifting consumer expectations. By streamlining operations, enhancing communication and anticipating customer needs, he has positioned Goodhue as a resilient leader in a competitive market.
Beyond business performance, Burke also champions boating safety and education. He has implemented internal protocols that prioritize proper safety equipment, vessel checks, and operator education.
12 september / october 2025