Ward’s Marine Electric: How the Hebert Family Transformed Fort Lauderdale's Marine Industry

Megayacht News Radio

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Seventy-five years of family business excellence is a milestone worth celebrating, especially in the ever-evolving marine industry. Kristy Hebert, President and CEO of Ward’s Marine Electric, joins us to share the remarkable journey from her grandfather's garage-based operation to a marine electric powerhouse serving the world's finest yachts.
The story begins with a post-WWII veteran who loved boating and found a way to merge his passion with his generator expertise. What started as a small operation using his personal aircraft to deliver parts to boats in the Bahamas evolved into a cornerstone business that helped shape Fort Lauderdale's development as a global yachting center. Kristy reveals how her family played a pivotal role in the 1961 initiative to bring electric power to local marinas – a seemingly small change that transformed the region by encouraging vessels to remain docked and seek maintenance locally.
Kristy's own path into the family business wasn't predetermined. Initially helping with a catalog while applying to law school, she discovered an unexpected passion for the industry. Her leadership philosophy balances honoring their rich heritage while embracing innovation, as reflected in their podcast initiative and her tagline, "We're 75 and we're just getting started." The company's unique workforce structure – with half their team serving 30+ years and half under five years – creates a powerful blend of expertise and fresh perspectives.
Beyond their business success, Ward’s Marine Electric has become a powerful advocate for the marine industry. Kristy 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? Visit wardsmarine.com and discover how this three-generation family business continues to power marine excellence worldwide.

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Chapters

1. Ward’s Marine Electric: How the Hebert Family Transformed Fort Lauderdale's Marine Industry (00:00:00)

2. Introducing Wards Marine Electric's 75-Year Legacy (00:01:38)

3. The Birth of a Family Business (00:03:08)

4. Kristy's Journey into the Family Business (00:06:12)

5. Generational Transfer and Succession Planning (00:08:00)

6. How Wards Works with Yacht Owners (00:13:20)

7. Industry Advocacy and Legislative Impact (00:16:16)

8. What Yacht Owners Really Want: Freedom (00:25:06)