Seventy-five years of family business success is a milestone worth celebrating, especially in the ever-evolving yachting industry. Kristy Hebert, president and CEO of Ward’s Marine Electric, joins our podcast to share the company’s remarkable journey. What started in her grandfather’s garage is now a marine electric powerhouse serving the world’s finest yachts.
In fact, he was a post-WWII veteran who loved boating and merged his passion with his generator expertise. Ward’s Marine Electric was a small operation initially, with Ward Eshelman Sr. using his personal aircraft to deliver parts to stranded boats in the Bahamas. Soon, it evolved into a cornerstone business that helped shape Fort Lauderdale as a global yachting center. Hebert reveals how her family played a pivotal role in the 1961 initiative to bring electric power to local marinas. This seemingly small change ultimately transformed the region. Specifically, it encouraged yachts to remain docked and seek maintenance nearby.
Hebert’s own path into the family business wasn’t predetermined. Originally helping with a catalog while applying to law school, she discovered an unexpected passion for the industry. Her leadership philosophy balances honoring the company’s rich heritage while exploring new paths, as reflected in the Ward’s Marine Electric podcast. It simultaneously reflects in the new tagline, “We’re 75 and we’re just getting started.” The company’s unique workforce structure—with half the team serving 30+ years and half under five years—creates a powerful blend of expertise and fresh perspectives, too.
Beyond business success, Ward’s Marine Electric has become a powerful advocate for the marine industry. Hebert shares valuable insights on effective legislative engagement, explaining how focusing on economic impact rather than political differences has helped secure bipartisan support for initiatives benefiting marine businesses and their employees. When asked to distill what yacht owners ultimately seek, her answer is simple yet profound: “Freedom.” – to explore, escape pressures, and create exceptional experiences with loved ones.
Ready to learn more? Discover how this three-generation family business continues to power marine excellence worldwide by listening above. Or, listen in your favorite podcast player. Megayacht News Radio is available for free on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, iHeart Radio Podcasts, and all major platforms.
Ward’s Marine Electric wardsmarine.com
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