The 51st Annual Stuart Boat Show is just a few days away! Explore hundreds of boats, connect with marine experts, and enjoy live music and family activities. A portion of the event’s proceeds will go to the Marine Industries Association of the Treasure Coast, including its programs to develop a stronger skilled trades workforce for the marine industry in the region. Hosted by the Marine Industry Association of the Treasure Coast and produced by AllSports Productions, the Stuart Boat Show will feature more than 205 local, national, and international exhibitors displaying hundreds of boats in water and on land.
A portion of the event’s proceeds will benefit the MIATC, a non-profit trade organization that works with the Marine Industries Association of Florida. The organization focuses on growing awareness of the industry, advocating for it, workforce development, its members, and its tremendous impact on local economies. MIATC is also a partner and investor of the Business Development Board of Martin County.
As one of the main legacy industries in Martin County, the marine industry is recognized as one of the Hubs of Excellence. It is a long-established industry that contributes immensely to the local economy. Click here to learn more about the marine industry’s annual impact on Martin County and the region.
Last month, Parker Smith of Smith Marine Services won Youth Entrepreneur of the Year at the 2024 Martin County Business Awards, which were hosted by the BDBMC and presented by Bank of America.
About Parker Smith
Treasure Coast’s multibillion-dollar marine industry is filled with legacy businesses, rich traditions, and ample opportunities, from working waterfront marinas to yacht sales companies to luxury boat builders. But we’re unaware of any local marine business whose founder and CEO is only 16 years old. That is until Parker Smith splashed on the scene and introduced his company, Smith Marine Services.
Not only does he welcome work opportunities others might disdain or avoid, such as washing and detailing boats, but Smith also regularly updates his skillset and expands his services. In addition to providing mate and captain services, he’s taking courses to earn his Yamaha mechanic certification while finishing high school. A graduate of Project LIFT, Smith has built a reputation for tenaciously seeking out opportunities, creating solutions, and outworking peers in pursuit of his goals. Moreover, he excels at enlisting and motivating others to bring out their best. He’s looking forward to growing his business, investing in more equipment, and creating jobs for others. Withstanding the winds of business means navigating rough seas more often than savoring smooth sailing. In either case, Smith has what it takes to helm his future endeavors to success.
In their nomination, Project Lift said about Smith: “Parker is such an impressive young man; he understands the value of putting your mind to something and doing it—meeting the needs of your community and multiplying your skills to succeed.”
