Issue link: http://read.uberflip.com/i/834717
July 2017 | Boating Industry | 29 [ 40 Under 40 ] www.BoatingIndustry.com idea that this would never work. It would have been very easy to listen to those people and di- rect our attention elsewhere, but this team is full of dedicated and passionate people who are hell bent on challenging the status quo. Who was your hero as child? Leroy Robert "Satchel" Paige. I was tasked to do a biography on him in the second grade and his story always stuck with me. I am absolutely posi- tive that if I was presented with the same chal- lenges I would not have possessed the dignity or will to achieve all that he accomplished. Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career? My first boss and CEO Tim Burns. He taught me a lot about business but even more about life. The lessons he instilled in me will last a lifetime. MIKE MENNE Founder/production director, Strait Productions What was your first job? My first job out of collage was the marketing director at Premier Pontoons. It allowed me to meet many great people and learn the "ins and outs" of the industry. What accomplish- ment are you most proud of? Helping Marquis Yachts and Toyota Marine Group launch the Lexus Sport Yacht Concept last year in Miami. We were creative in our approach to getting the job done and it was awesome to help in relaunch- ing the Lexus brand internationally. What is your favorite place to go boating? Exploring Lake Vermilion at our family cabin near Cook, Minn. It's one of the most beautiful lakes in America. What boat did you learn to boat on? Learned to boat on a 1987 Forester Rio. We grew up on a lake and spent all our free time as kids out in the water skiing, tubing and hanging with friends. Who was your hero as a child? It's cliché, but my dad. He was a great father, ran a successful business and was always having fun. People love him for those reasons. Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career? My uncle Bob is top of the list. He has been working in the marine industry since the 1970s and was just inducted into the NMMA Hall of Fame last fall. He has owned and operated a few boat brands over the years and I was always in awe of his passion and work ethic. He has a per- sonality that you just love to be around. KATE MOSLEY Marina manager, Saybrook Point Marina What first drew you to the industry? I have been immersed in the industry since birth, as I grew up on a boat in the marina at which both my parents worked. Growing up in a ma- rina was the best childhood I could imagine. What was your first job? Pumping gas at the fuel dock.