A candid conversation with young professionals about what attracts them to the marine industry, what encourages them to stay and what causes talented people to leave.

A panel-driven session on building a “personal board of directors,” the handful of mentors, peers, and sponsors every career needs, and how to become that person for someone else. Addresses how to ask for mentorship without being awkward about it, and how time-strapped senior people can mentor without a huge commitment.

Built around Boating Industry’s Women Making Waves recognition program, this session is reserved for women in the marine B2B world and focused on what comes after being told you’re doing well. This will delve into how to translate recognition into influence, sponsorship, and the next role.

The Boating Industry Mover & Shaker of the Year will share details of their life and career including how they entered the industry, challenges they encountered, how they rose through the ranks at their business and others, and what advice they can pass on to the next generation of industry leaders.

Join us in the Emerging Marine Leaders Lounge for an evening of celebration and connection. This cocktail reception honors the marine industry’s 40 Under 40 and Women Making Waves award recipients, bringing together rising leaders and accomplished professionals for an evening of networking, conversation, and industry camaraderie.

Most young professionals wait for a senior title before they think about personal brand, but by then, their reputation has already been set by other people. This session walks through how to define a professional identity early: what to be known for, how to show up online and at the show, and how to do it without feeling like a self-promoter.

For the first time, many marine businesses have four or even five generations working together. Different communication styles, expectations and attitudes toward technology can create friction—but also significant opportunity. This panel will examine common generational misunderstandings and offer practical strategies for collaboration, feedback, knowledge transfer and mutual respect.

A tactical session on relationship-building for people who find networking events awkward or performative. Covers how to work a trade show floor with intention, follow up in a way that doesn’t feel like a form letter, and build a small circle of industry peers who actually return your calls five years from now.

Start your Thursday morning with meaningful conversations at Coffee & Connections, taking place from 9:00–10:00 AM in the IBEX Emerging Marine Leaders Lounge.

Enjoy coffee and a light breakfast while connecting with industry VIPs and experienced marine professionals in a relaxed, welcoming setting. This informal mentoring and networking event gives emerging leaders the opportunity to ask questions, gain valuable career insights, build relationships, and learn from those who have helped shape the recreational marine industry.

Whether you’re looking for guidance, inspiration, or new industry connections, Coffee & Connections is the perfect place to start your day.