Newsletter July 2021

From the Captain's Chair: We Need Your Promptness

With summer in full swing, I hope everyone is enjoying time with family and out on the water.

While we’re all making the most of our summers, I want to touch on a few pressing topics that require your attention in the coming days and weeks. Many of these topics come with requiring your responsiveness immediately.

Vessel Surveys

As we all know, the debate and discussions continue about the infrastructure project to find a solution over or under the existing bridge on the New River. Per the PD&E Study, the current options on the table include a 21’, 56’, or 80’ bridge, or a tunnel. A final decision will be made down the road, but right now the marine industry has the opportunity to provide input that will best serve our industry and its continued growth.

In July, we sent out a Vessel Survey to all local boatyards and those businesses with commercial activity. It is critically important that all stakeholders – especially those upriver from the FEC tracks site – complete and return the survey promptly.

Information as to the number of vessels that will require the opening of a 21’ to 25’ bridge is especially important to compile so we can appropriately lobby for a solution. A big reason for this is that the numbers tell us a 25’ bridge would still require an opening for 95% of boats, while 80% of boats would be able to clear a 56’ bridge. Your responses to the survey move us towards a solution that avoids creating an impediment for the vessels our industry serves, which is critical for our future. Public charrettes of the matter will begin in September, so we ask that you give us this information promptly.

Acquisitions

On a very positive note, industry acquisitions continue. The recent purchase of Yacht Haven Park & Marina for $58 million is the latest newsmaker. Fort Lauderdale Motorcoach Resort and Yacht Club, led by Gary Cioffi and Christopher Hein, bought the property, and secured an $81.7 million purchase and renovation loan. The buyers plan to add amenities to the RV site and renovate the marina, including the addition of a new sea wall.

This is just the latest in a string of high-profile acquisitions that demonstrate the marine industry is seen as a Class A investment by investors, family offices, private equity, and the like. Despite the global pandemic, our industry has thrived, with overall acquisitions approaching $2 billion. It shows no sign of slowing down, either.

FLIBS

In less than 90 days, the opportunity for us all to get together, reconnect, and conduct business at the largest in-water boat show in the world takes place. The 62nd Annual Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show will deliver on B2B, B2C, welcoming back the convention center, and building the economic impact created for our industry and community that is second to none. Exhibitors and attendees can also remain confident that, like last year’s highly successful live event, it will be a safe and secure environment, following Informa’s AllSecureä plan.

In addition to the world premieres and debuts, there is always a collection of new offerings and events taking place as well. And this year’s show is no different. One standout event kicking off the weekend will be the Fort Lauderdale Concours, produced by Maxim Sports Management. This unique pairing of classic cars and collector sneakers promises something for everyone. The event will take place at the Las Olas rooftop, one of seven FLIBS event sites this year.

Also new this year is the Visit Lauderdale and Bermuda Tourism Authority partnership’s Go Where the Yachts Go tourism program. This multi-year marketing campaign debuts at the FLIBS opening night party which is also co-sponsored by the two organizations. This event is only the kick-off as there will be a number of other events happening throughout the show to highlight this new initiative.

South Florida Business Journal Survey

Last but not least, a reminder to send in your response to the 7th Annual South Florida Business Journal survey. As you know the marine industry has been a part of this publication’s prestigious Book of Lists for the past 7 years. Your prompt survey responses help prove that the marine industry is not just “an” industry in South Florida, but “the” industry.

Having the marine industry represented on the Book of Lists is one more way we maintain a seat at the table and can demonstrate to local, state, and federal leaders just how important our industry is to the overall economy. We can’t do that without your support.

Have a great rest of summer, stay safe on the water, and make the most of this time with family and friends.

 

Phil Purcell

CEO/President

Advocacy Report

The U.S. Coast Guard Change of Command at District 7 happened this month. Rear Admiral Brendan McPherson assumed responsibility for Coast Guard activities throughout the 1.7 million square mile area including Puerto Rico, Florida, Georgia, South Carolina as well as 34 foreign nations and territories. His 30+ year career, including his most recent assignment serving as military advisor to the Secretary of Homeland Security, has prepared him for D7. He has also served on previous assignments in Miami so drug smuggling, search and rescue, and hurricanes are expected challenges he is ready for. His first week in command he faces the humanitarian flotilla efforts to Cuba, proving this command will be anything but dull. Many other USCG officers have changed duty stations this year and we are in the process of organizing, with the help of Water Taxi, an educational tour up the New River for those new department heads whose responsibilities are closely related to marine industries operation.
 
Fort Lauderdale is looking to the future for traffic solutions. Investigating the option to solve the traffic access to the beach through an unsolicited bid from the Boring Company for a tunnel is exciting. Investment in innovation and infrastructure will be necessary to keep Fort Lauderdale a live work and play community as our population continues to grow and land to expand roadways becomes scarce. Another company bringing innovation to our community is Lilium with an electric jet service and a proposed network of 14 vertiports connecting Central Florida and South Florida. Getting us out of our cars is the future.
 
Other future traffic solutions also include the plan for the addition to commuter service on the east coast rail line. We are currently in the Project Development and Environment (PD&E) Study phase of the project. The navigation study which identifies the amount of traffic and the air draft clearance on the New River needs more information to assure the preferred bridge height will accommodate and not impede the vessel traffic destiny for our shipyards. Each business on the New River has received a short vessel survey asking to identify the percentage of your customers that would require an opening of a bridge with a 21’ clearance. We believe an additional 21’ bridge would be an impediment to navigation, and we need your statistics to verify that. All the other options suggested tunnel, 56’ bascule or 80’ fixed would solve the navigation issue on the river, which option is chosen is up to city leaders, FDOT and input from the community. Look for the public meetings to start in September.
 
Each year the MIASF participates in Broward Days and more specifically, the marine industry impact team. We meet several times leading up to the start of the Florida legislative session to create a white paper identifying and prioritizing our issues including Port Everglades dredging, additional slip availability in the manatee plan, funding and fast tracking the commuter rail project, just to name a few. Then we will go to Tallahassee to educate the legislature about our issues on January 18th and 19th. We will begin this process in the mid- August time frame. If you would like to participate in the marine industry impact team, send an email to patience@miasf.org requesting to be added to the Broward Days meeting notice.  

Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Report

The summer has been productive for the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program; the apprentices have been expanding their knowledge on various projects both on-the-job and in the classroom.  The on-the-job training skills of our current apprentices is very impressive.  On any given workday our apprentices are welding, painting, plumbing, heavy lifting, performing detailed metal fabrication and more!  While maintaining full-time employment at our participating employers, the apprentices also attend a weekly evening class at Atlantic Technical College in order to develop the additional skills required to be a successful marine industry technician. 

The Class of 2021, Class #1, has entered the final quarter of the program and are now working in the Carpentry Module.  Atlantic Technical College assigned their 20-year veteran woodworking teacher to get the apprentices working with all of the table saws and floor equipment. The Carpentry Module will familiarize the apprentices with marine wood types, hardware, hand tools, power tools, measuring, as well as a few small woodworking projects. 
 
The Class of 2022, Class #2, has finished the Rigging & Heavy Lifting Module of the program. The module covered determining product sizes and weights, choosing proper hardware for different sling angles, rigging terminology, lift plans, forklift operation, and overhead cranes. The class is now entering the Outside Machining and Running Gear portion of the course that covers most underwater systems including shafts, shaft seals, struts, bearings, rudders, thrusters, stabilizers, props, and more. 
 
This January we begin our 3rd class for the Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program! Space is filling, so if you would like to send one of your current or future employees, please contact Instructor Jon Lowell. For more information contact us at 954-524-2733 or email jonathananthony.lowell@browardschools.com.  

Business Highlight: Boats Group

For Miami-based Boats Group, connecting the largest global audience of boat buyers with top sellers and manufacturers is the heartbeat of their business. For more than 30 years, the company has been a trusted partner to brokers, dealers and OEMS, and today its growing portfolio of leading marketplaces includes: Boat Trader, YachtWorld, boats.com, iNautia, Cosas De Barcos, Botentekoop, Annonces du Bateau, Boats and Outboards, Boatshop24 and, most recently, Europe’s leading rental marketplace, Click&Boat.

Boats Group also provides marine businesses with a comprehensive suite of technology-based marketing solutions, including advertising, lead generation, CRM, website design and hosting. Additionally, Boats Group supports brokers and dealers by providing services through its YachtCloser contract management solution, and BoatWizard, the industry’s leading inventory management system and MLS.

To show the impact its businesses have on boat sales, earlier this year Boats Group released the findings from its 2021 Lead Conversion Analysis that examined all U.S. sales leads from across its Boat Trader, YachtWorld and boats.com portals. The study, conducted in partnership with data analytics firm Info-Link Technologies, revealed that one in every six sales leads submitted on those sites converted to a boat sale. Consistent with Boats Group’s previous analyses, the single largest cohort of shoppers submitting leads were newcomers and represented 56% of the Boats Group lead base.

Since many boat buyers start their purchase journey on a Boats Group site, the company's brands have a strong connection with their audience and are passionate about cultivating that relationship throughout the lifecycle of boat ownership. Boats Group has witnessed the surge in boaters over the past year and is engaging the tidal wave of new entrants with trendsetting video series that tell the celebrated stories of people and boating, and with timely resources and editorial content that new buyers and current boat owners need.

Boats Group is focused on building the largest, most-trusted boating marketplace network and leveraging technology to deliver unmatched value to its industry partners. They are taking every opportunity to streamline and drive boat sales and promote the long-term health of the industry.

To learn more about Boats Group and read their latest news, including the recent announcement of their significant investment in digital boat rental platform Click&Boat, check out their website at www.boatsgroup.com.

Faces in the Industry: Selina Fanek, MIASF

MIASF is pleased to welcome Selina Fanek, Administrative Assistant to the team! Originally from California, Selina grew up in Switzerland and Central Florida. She attended the University of Central Florida with a major in broadcast/journalism before pursuing a career in real estate. In her free time, she enjoys staying active with hobbies such as mountain biking, fishing, and cooking with her family. She was first drawn to the industry because of its versatility, she loves the many leisure activities that can be enjoyed with family and friends as well as the professionalism of the industry when pursuing a career and giving back to the community. She says, “I look forward to embracing my role with MIASF and helping them with all of our events throughout the year as I find it important to give back to our community in many different ways.”

Welcome to the team, Selina!

MIASF Membership Directory

The MIASF Membership Directory is going to print! Log in to your Bundle Administrator account and make any necessary updates no later than August 13th to be included in the 2021-2022 print directory. If you have any issues logging in contact us at info@miasf.org. As a reminder, only the Bundle Administrator account is published, and the printed company description must be limited to 500 characters including spaces (unless you are an Anchor Member).

Advertising space is still available for members to place a half or full-page ad; click here to download the ad rate sheet and order form. Ad space must be confirmed by August 18th.

Coast Guard Seventh District Change of Command

MIASF had the privilege of attending the Coast Guard Seventh District Change of Command ceremony. The ceremony took place on Thursday, July 15th at Air Station Miami in Opa-locka, Florida. Rear Adm. Brenden McPherson assumed the duties of the Seventh District Commander and Director of Department of Homeland Security Joint Task Force – Southeast from Read Adm. Eric C. Jones.

Jones will take on a new role as he leaves to serve in Washington, D.C. as the Assistant Commandant for Human Resources. MIASF thanks Jones for his services and looks forward to continuing to build our relationship with the Seventh District and Rear Adm. McPherson.

South Florida Business Journal 7th Annual Marine Industry List

The South Florida Business Journal 7th Annual Marine Industry List will be released on October 15th. By now, the South Florida Business Journal should have contacted you with a survey to take for this year’s lists. When you receive the email from Eman Elshahawy at eelshahawy@bizjournals.com, TAKE THE SURVEY! It’s easy. It’s important. It’s powerful. By providing your revenue and employee details in the survey, you are helping to prove that the marine industry is not just “an” industry in South Florida, but “the” industry.

Want to show your support for our industry in a more dynamic way? Consider placing an ad in the South Florida Business Journal special Marine Section. This special section will be distributed to all South Florida Business Journal subscribers as well as at the Global Business Luncheon at the Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show.

For more information and to request special advertising and sponsorship rates, contact Yasmine Gahed at ygahed@bizjournals.com.

 

FEC New River Bridge Temporary Deviation

Throughout the month of August, the FEC New River Bridge will operate under a temporary deviation to perform annual capital upgrades to the structure. The new temporary schedule anticipates 2 4-hour windows through the night with the bridge being in the down position to complete the work. You can view the entire temporary deviation schedule here.

Nova Southeastern University Education Corporate Partnership

MIASF is pleased to announce it has established a new Educational Corporate Partnership with Nova Southeastern University H. Wayne Huizenga College of Business and Entrepreneurship. This partnership creates a new benefit for all active MIASF members by offering them a tuition rate discount applicable towards all Graduate Business degree programs and Graduate Business Certificates offered by NSU. The corporate discount rate will be 20% off the published cataloged per credit tuition rates. Stay on the lookout for more information that will be sent regarding how to take advantage of this member benefit. 

Multiple Pathways to the American Dream

The Greater Fort Lauderdale Chamber of Commerce and Broward Technical Colleges hosted Multiple Pathways to the American Dream. Vice President of MIASF, Lori Wheeler, was a panelist for this virtual event that was hosted for more than 250 attendees via zoom. The purpose of the event is for attendees to learn how to earn industry certifications that could lead to well-paying careers in in-demand local industries. Lori presented about the many career pathways, workforce opportunities, and educational programs available to those interested in a career in the marine industry, including Salty Jobs and our Yacht Service Technician Apprenticeship Program.

CDTC Back-to-School Supply Drive

In the coming weeks, MIASF is encouraging its members, partners, and community to join us in supporting the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center’s Back to School Drive. The Back-to-School Drive kicks off in July and will help fill the backpacks of more than 700 boys and girls with special needs. To make it convenient for you, there are many ways to donate!

• Monday-Friday from 8:00 am to 5:30 pm at the MIASF Office (221 SW 3rd Avenue, Fort Lauderdale, FL 33312)
• Bring your donations when you attend the MIASF Member Connect event on August 18th. The event will be hosted at The Flagship Room at the MIASF Office from 5 pm – 7pm
• Make a monetary donation online here

You can find a suggested list of donation items here. Thank you for joining us in giving back to our community!

Member News: Land 'N' Sea

Larry Porche, Director of Strategic Business Development at Land ‘N’ Sea, passed away last month at age 67. Porche served the marine industry for 44 years. From his early days in the engine segment as vice president and general manager of Super Gasket/Aqua Power to his work with Clarion developing aftermarket strategies to more than 20 years with Land ‘N’ Sea. He was involved with multiple acquisitions and integrations throughout his tenure, including Bell Recreation, Kellogg, and Diversified Marine. He served on the board of the National Marine Distributors Association; was a founding committee co-chair of S.T.E.P.; a board member of Amtech (Association of Marine Technicians) and the National Marine Propeller Association; and served on several National Marine Manufacturers Association committees.

Member News: Derecktor Shipyards

Derecktor Shipyards announced that Richard Steady will be joining the iconic 75-year-old yard as Chief Operating Officer. Steady has held many executive maritime positions and brings impressive credentials to Derecktor. He began his career at Maritrans, the global shipping and transportation company, where he rose to the position of Director of Government and Regulatory Affairs. He also held key roles at Weeks Marine, a prominent marine construction and dredging operator, where he was Director of Marine Services, as well as American Marine Corporation, a marine construction, transportation, and salvage business, where he was Executive Vice President.

Steady will be based out of Derecktor Dania where he will be responsible for overall operations and development at Derecktor’s Florida and New York shipyards, encompassing new vessel construction along with yacht and commercial refit and service.

Member News: Global Marine Travel

Global Marine Travel (GMT) heads into its third year in a row on the Travel Weekly Power List as a specialist Travel Management Company within the Maritime Industry, gaining a new spot at #42 for 2021.

Travel Weekly surveyed companies with a minimum of $100 million in travel sales certified by a company’s owner, CEO or CFO. Due to the pandemic, their methodology was to continue to base rankings on gross travel sales in 2019 with the exception only of 2020 merger and acquisition activity among Power List agencies.

One of the main strengths of the industry had been through acknowledging weaknesses and adapting to new ways of working, while also raising the bar on customer service to accommodate the influx of cancellations and refunds. GMT took a proactive approach to the pandemic throughout 2020 and worked to increase communication methods with all clients, focus on maritime crew repatriation globally via charter flights, worked with customers and airlines to manage refunds and find solutions to complex travel requests, invested in additional mergers and acquisitions and reduced office space.

Member News: Northrop & Johnson

Northrop & Johnson was recently named a South Florida Top Workplace 2021 by the Sun Sentinel. This is the second workplace-related accolade Northrop & Johnson was awarded in 2021. Earlier this year, Northrop & Johnson was ranked first in the Medium-sized Company category in South Florida Business Journal’s 2021 Best Places to Work Awards.

The Top Places to Work award from the Sun Sentinel is based solely on employee feedback gathered through a third-party survey administered by employee engagement technology partner Energage, LLC. This anonymous survey is unique as it measures 15 culture drivers that are critical to the success of any organization. These drivers include alignment, execution, and connection, among others.

Member News: Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County

Congratulations to Alyssa Freeman, Executive Director of Marine Industries Association of Palm Beach County for being named one of Boating Industry’s “Women Making Waves.” Women Making Waves recognizes the multitude of women in the marine industry who have made and continue to make great contributions to its success, propel its growth, and lead their organizations and peers into the future.

Member News: MarineMax, Inc.

MarineMax announced the acquisition of Nisswa Marine, a full-service dealer located in Nisswa, Minnesota. Founded in the 1930’s, Nisswa Marine is one of the oldest dealers in the country. Lead by Brent, Jeremy and Steve Wiczek, Nisswa Marine offers premium brands, including Mastercraft, Supra, Moomba, Chris Craft and Premier Pontoons. Providing storage for almost 1,000 boats annually, the business has built an exceptional reputation for its extensive service and storage operations. The Nisswa leadership team will continue to operate the business.

Member News: Trac-Ecological

Drew International has acquired Trac-Ecological, a leading supplier of environmentally friendly chemical solutions for yachts and other pleasure boats. Trac-Ecological’s products include: descalers, cleaners, degreasers, flushing units, and accessories, will now fall under the Drew Marine Segment.

“The acquisition by Drew Marine will be a great benefit to our customers,” Patrick Leclerc, President of Trac-Ecological said. “Drew will bring resources that were not available to Trac that will allow for even better access to our marine chemical solutions, it’s very exciting.”

Drew Marine will move the production of the product line to its Manufacturing Center in Waterbury, CT. In conjunction with the deal, Drew will open a showroom and service center in the Fort Lauderdale, FL USA area that will be the home of its Yacht and Leisure Boat operations.

Member News: Westport Yachts

Westport Yachts announced that Bob Saxon has been appointed as President of Yacht Sales to spearhead the renowned yacht builder’s efforts in the full spectrum of sales and services that yield pride of ownership for Westport yacht owners and their guests.

“Bob’s expertise in the megayacht market is unparalleled. He has over 40 years of experience in sales, charter, and full yacht management. He is also founding president of the International Superyacht Society (ISS), as well as four-term president of the International Yacht Brokers Association (IYBA). He has been a dominant force in the large yacht market, and we are pleased to have him aboard,” says Gary Chouest of Westport and ECO.

Member News: Everglades Diesel Injection Service, Inc.

Diesel Forward has reached agreement to purchase Everglades Diesel Injection Service, Inc. This acquisition will expand Diesel Forward’s distribution footprint and product range in marine and large bore diesel fuel and air systems.

Everglades Diesel was the second Central Distributor for Bosch in North America. For more than 55 years it has been servicing marine fuel system and turbochargers in South Florida and Caribbean region.

The Everglades team will be joining the Diesel Forward family and will continue to operate under the leadership of Nick Cibants. Nick will assume the role of General Manager for the region and for the marine product line. Nick has more than 40 years of experience in the marine business and will help expand Diesel Forward’s marine technical and service capabilities in support of our nationwide network of fuel system expert repair shops.

Everglades Diesel also shared that William (Bill) Gonzalez has retired. At just 18 years old he began his career at Everglades Diesel repairing injectors. His loyalty and hard work were rewarded and he was promoted to shop manager. In 1998, Bill was offered to be co-owner of Everglades Diesel and in July 1999, Bill and Nick Cibants became partners and grew Everglades Diesel to what it is today: a well-known, quality-oriented, reputable fuel injection shop.

Member News: Gillen Yacht Services, Inc.

Gillen Yacht Services, Inc. has been announced as one of the first dealers in the United States to sell and install the new Smartgyro gyroscopic stabilizers. The Smartgyro SG series incorporates unique features and technological advancements within its design to reduce downtime for the vessel and enhance onboard comfort and experience for boat owners, crew, and family.

Gillen Yacht Services will use its engineering and technical expertise to focus on raising awareness about Smartgyro gyro stabilizers with customers and executing installations of the current SG40 and SG80 for boats over 48ft.

Offering a lower spool-up time to stabilization than similar products, the Smartgyro unit makes less revolutions per minute to extend bearings’ lifetime. The SG range also features cutting-edge developments within the control electronics, braking system, liquid-cooled system, and vacuum enclosure to maximize roll reduction, performance and efficiency.

Member News: Fassmer Technical Projects

Ciramar Shipyards signed a strategic alliance with Fassmer Technical Projects that establishes the basis for cooperation in various areas, including design and construction of new ships and multipurpose vessels manufactured in the Dominican Republic. The scope of the deal also includes maintenance, manufacture, and local marketing of mechanical products, including propellers, stabilization and steering systems, thrusters, azimuth thrusters; as well as naval automation; ship repair; and personnel training with consulting in the design of naval devices.

“We were honored to be received by President Abinader. We were extremely impressed with his detailed questions and knowledge about the industries we are involved in,” said Craig Gundry, General Manager of Fassmer Technical Projects. “There was a great focus on the importance of job creation within his country, as well as creating a positive environment for economic improvement. This week represents the realization of a shared vision between Fassmer and Ciramar to create a new standard of ship repair and ship building in the Caribbean.”

Member News: National Marine Manufacturers Association

NMMA announced the hire of Kevin M. Williams as Vice President of Marketing. In this new role created in support of the NMMA’s strategic plan to expand the market for recreational boating, Williams will oversee the industry's Discover Boating campaign and the integration of the Discover Boating brand with boat shows. This includes all of NMMA’s paid media, digital marketing, consumer-facing content, and social media, and creative as the association works to invite the next generation to the boating lifestyle.

Williams brings more than 25 years of marketing experience to NMMA. Most recently, Williams co-founded Fortitude Interactive Inc., a marketing technology consulting firm focused on brand strategy, content development and syndication, as well as intellectual property in the digital, social, and mobile age. Prior to launching Fortitude, he was head of multicultural marketing and diversity and inclusion initiatives for BMW of North America, LLC., where he facilitated multicultural marketing strategies and initiatives designed to reach, engage, and motivate diverse consumers for BMW, MINI Cooper, and BMW Motorrad brands.

Member News: Boats Group

Click&Boat, the leading boat rental platform in Europe, announced a significant investment from funds advised by Permira, the global private equity firm, alongside Boats Group. By joining forces, Boats Group and Click&Boat will aim to build the largest global online player in the recreational marine industry. The two marketplaces will form a close strategic partnership. The investment provides Click&Boat with the resources to supercharge its growth and cement its position as a market leader globally. Click&Boat will also gain access to Boats Group’s market-leading consumer audience, as well as the large and fast-growing boat rental market in North America, where Boats Group has an established presence.

Through this partnership, Click&Boat can tap into Boats Group’s expansive pool of 20 million boating consumers every month while continuing to innovate and improve the boat rental process. Sam Fulton, CEO of Boats Group, said: “As interest in boating continues to remain very strong, it has never been more important to diversify – and simplify – the path to getting on the water. Click&Boat’s platform makes the boat rental journey seamless and easy, and we are confident that this partnership will help accelerate its growth worldwide.”

Member News: Historical Marker Unveiled Honoring Bob Roscioli

On Friday, July 23rd, Roscioli Yachting Center honored a legend of the marine industry and South Florida community. At a small and intimate gathering, the Roscioli family unveiled the Historical Marker honoring Robert Roscioli. The Marker will serve as a constant reminder of the impact Roscioli as he built his two businesses, Roscioli Yachting Center and Roscioli Donzi Yachts from the ground up. You’re invited to stop by the yard to see the landmark anytime.

Upcoming Events

Our next MIASF Member Connect event is set to take place on Wednesday, August 18th from 5 pm to 7 pm at The Flagship Room at the MIASF Office! This month’s event will feature a Back-to-School Drive benefitting the Children’s Diagnostic & Treatment Center, an opportunity to network with fellow MIASF members, and a panel discussion from some new faces at our local boatyards. The panel will be moderared by Phil Purcell, CEO/President of MIASF, and include representation from the following companies:
·       Derecktor Shipyards
·       Lauderdale Marine Center
·       RMK Merril-Stevens
·       Roscioli Yachting Center 

In support of the CDTC's Back-to-School supply drive benefitting more than 700 children with special healthcare needs, we ask all attendees to bring a donation to the event. Suggested dontation items include: backpacks, scissors, notebooks, markers, rulers, crayons, glue sticks, folders, pens, colored pencils, and composition books. Let's help these kids start their school year off in the best way possible!

The event is open to all active MIASF members and you can register for the event here. Make sure to mark your calendar for all future MIASF Member Connect events as they are scheduled for the third Wednesday of every month. We have a great schedule lined up for our members that you are not going to want to miss!

Special thank you to Advanced Mechanical Enterprises, Inc. for sponsoring this month's Member Connect! 

Past Events

Our new monthly Member Connect member networking series was launched on July 15th at Frank & Jimmie’s Propeller with over 50 members in attendance. In addition to members mingling and touring the prop shop we said a special farewell to our own, Nicole Hoekstra, before she moves at the end of the month. We’re sure going to miss her!! Thank you to the entire Frank & Jimmie’s team for hosting this event.

If you are interested in hosting a future MIASF Member Connect event, please contact us at info@miasf.org.

Salty Jobs

After a brief mid-season break, Salty Jobs is BACK! In the latest episode, co-hosts Megan Piggott and David Chew, are joined by a robot assistant to help get the job done manufacturing trim tabs with Bennett Marine. Not sure what a trim tab is or does? Well, before filming this episode, we didn’t either! Mark you calendars to find out as the new episode will be released on Tuesday, August 3rd and you can watch it here!

 

Are you a MIASF Member interested in showcasing one of your salty jobs in a future episode? Contact Megan Piggott at megan@miasf.org for more information and to learn how!

 

Featured Job

Marine Service Technician / Luxury Yacht Mechanic (Land-Based Position)

Ferretti Group America

 

Location: Fort Lauderdale, FL

 

Salary Range: $20-$35 per hour, depending on experience

 

Full-Time or Part-Time: Full-Time

 

Jobs Description

Ferretti Group of America specializes in the sales and marketing of luxury yachts and other nautical services. We are a market leader in the Americas, and a member of the Ferretti Group (based in Italy). Ferretti Group of America is the exclusive dealer and distributor for the group’s yacht brands in North America, which include Ferretti Yachts, Riva, Pershing, Custom Line, CRN, Wally, and Itama.

 

This position is located in sunny Fort Lauderdale, FL, and provides you with a beautiful waterfront setting in which to work. Our elegant Ferretti Group Showroom is the largest covered, in-water marina in the US, where we feature new and used yachts for sale.

 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace. We offer a competitive compensation package, including a great benefits plan!

 

Marine Service Technician / Luxury Yacht Mechanic – Land based position

 

The following outline of a job description is to serve as a guide for expected job performance. It is not intended to limit individual initiative. The company reserves the right to add or delete job responsibilities.

 

ESSENTIAL DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES include, but are not limited to the following:

 

Complete repairs within the specified times.

Advise After Sales Manager of diagnosis, needed repairs, include pictures of before/after when applicable.

Ensure when completing each job, confirm work is satisfactory and in good working order.

Attend factory and/or additional technical training as necessary if requested upon

Troubleshoot some repairs via phone or video conference when necessary.

Maintain proper inventory of common items stocked in van.

Domestic and international travel for work, with potential overtime.

Accompany Corporate Captains on sea trials when needed.

Complete commissioning and inspection reports accurately when assigned.

Maintain company equipment to ensure good working order, including vehicles, uniform etc.

Always keep workspace and tools clean and organized.

Collect all necessary information before requesting parts and once ordered, maintain necessary documentation, and follow up on all orders.

Establish and maintain effective working relationships with other company personnel and a positive client interaction.

Respond to inquiries and seeks additional information when uncertain of any tasks.

Follow safety rules, applicable laws, and regulations, wear proper protective gear as needed.

Performs other duties as assigned.

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

 

Related experience in the Marine industry required. High school/GED; technical or vocational school a plus; bi-lingual English/Spanish a plus and require three or more years related technical experience and/or training. Strong understanding of customer service and ability to communicate effectively. Possess essential mechanical and technical skills.

 

We have multiple positions available that include one or more of these job-related skills that include welding, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, fiberglass, and/or hydraulics.

 

CERTIFICATES, LICENSES, REGISTRATIONS

 

Valid driver’s license required.

Open House-On the spot interviews!!!

 

Wednesday, July 14, 2021 from 8am-10am and 12pm-2pm

 

Lauderdale Marine Center 2001 SW 20th Street, Suite 102, Fort Lauderdale, 33315

 

Qualifications

 

EDUCATION and/or EXPERIENCE

 

Related experience in the Marine industry required. High school/GED; technical or vocational school a plus; bi-lingual English/Spanish a plus and require three or more years related technical experience and/or training. Strong understanding of customer service and ability to communicate effectively. Possess essential mechanical and technical skills. Possess job-related skills, i.e., welding, plumbing, mechanical, electrical, fiberglass, and hydraulics.

 

Benefits

 

We are an Equal Opportunity Employer and a Drug Free Workplace. We offer a competitive compensation package, including a great benefits plan!

 

How to Apply

 

If you are interested in applying to Ferretti Group of America, please email your resume to usjobs@ferrettigroup.com for immediate consideration. Please put Marine Service Technician in the Subject Line.

Did You Know?

The 2021-2022 MIASF Membership Directory is going to print soon; update your profile information by August 13th!