the large companies employing over 2,000 people . These companies are expanding and growing their workforces ,” explained Jayne Fifer , director of education and president emeritus of the Volusia Manufacturers Association .
“ Every manufacturer in our area needs skilled labor trained in advanced manufacturing technical skills . VMA is mounting a campaign to connect all the colleges that train these skills to our manufacturers ,” said Fifer .
Not only is the marine industry an opportunity for lucrative , long-term employment , but it ’ s also appreciated by those with an eye for detail .
“ It ’ s a career . You have people ( in the boating industry ) [ who ] love what they do , and it ’ s an art ,” said Sarah Dougherty . “ They don ’ t get enough credit for being as talented as they are .”
Danielle Anderson has worked in the public relations and media industry for a decade . She started her career as a reporter for Flagler Broadcasting where she discovered her passion for telling the stories of communities in Florida .
Did you know ? Buying a boat locally , there ’ s a chance your builder employs someone who worked with or learned from one of our region ’ s most notable boat builders , Bob Dougherty .
Dougherty spent 30 years at Boston Whaler , where he was key in developing their “ unsinkable hull ” and creating numerous other innovations , including the Rapid Molded Core Assembly Process , which is the model for many boat builders today .
In addition to being an innovator , Dougherty was a businessman . After retiring from Boston Whaler , Dougherty founded Edgewater Power Boats with his son , Stephen , in 1992 . And in 2002 , the duo founded Everglades Boats .
Dougherty earned many accolades during his career , including the coveted National Marine Manufacturers Innovation Award in 1999 , 2002 and again in 2005 . Dougherty also won the Volusia Manufacturing Association ’ s ( VMA ) “ Manny Award ,” which recognizes life-long achievement in manufacturing . In 2004 he was inducted into the VMA ’ s Hall of Fame .
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