The American Boat and Yacht Council (ABYC) has announced the recipients of the 2025 Outstanding Technician Awards during the International Marine Service Technician Week, running from April 21-25. Sponsored by Yamaha, the awards were given to 10 technicians selected from more than 30 nominees.
This year’s winners are Brandon Aitken from Hucks Marine & Resort, Charles Beaver from Safe Harbor Westport, Mick Belfy from Irish Boat Shop, Adam Lass from Flux Marine, Brian Lentell from Walstrom Marine, Toby Merritt from Precision Boats, Carlos Roman from Bluff Creek Marina, Christian Schade from Flux Marine, Jeremy “J.T.” Taylor from Slidell Marine Inc, and Garrett Zell from Port Diesel.
A new category, New Achiever, recognizes newcomers to the industry who demonstrate outstanding potential and skills. This year’s New Achievers are Delaney Huffman from Boyne Boat Yard and Taven Larrance from Big Thunder Marine. The event, now in its fourth year, aims to highlight marine service professionals excelling in customer service, technical training, and industry involvement.
Brandon Aitken – Hucks Marine & Resort
Training/Certifications: Sheridan College Toronto; ABYC Master Certified; MerCruiser and Mercury Certified; Seakeeper Certified; Yamaha Silver Certified
Brandon has an innate skill as a technician—persistence. His technical expertise and commitment to excellence have earned him a reputation for professionalism and reliability. For complex upgrades, he often walks customers through the options, explaining what’s being seen and helping them make informed decisions. He takes an “Option 1 or Option 2” approach to help customers save money without compromising quality.
Charles Beaver – Safe Harbor Westport
Training/Certifications: ABYC Certified; MerCruiser/Mercury Master; Volvo Penta Certified; Power Pole Certified
Charles has worked at Westport for over 28 years. Due to his dedication, he now serves as lead foreman for the Westport location, oversees the satellite site at Safe Harbor Kings Point, and is the primary mobile technician for Safe Harbor Skipper’s Landing. Customers request Charles by name, bringing their vessels specifically to have him assigned, thanks to his strong reputation.
Mick Belfy – Irish Boat Shop
Training/Certifications: ABYC Electrical, ABYC Marine Systems, Welding; working toward ABYC Advanced Electrical for Master Technician status
With more than 20 years of experience, Mick Belfy is a versatile and highly skilled technician specializing in mechanical systems, electrical work, welding, and fabrication. In addition to his technical work, Mick serves on profit-sharing and safety committees, responds in emergencies, and mentors new employees. Known for his problem-solving abilities and meticulous attention to detail, Mick seamlessly balances boat repairs with the broader technical needs of marina operations.
Adam Lass – Flux Marine Ltd.
Training/Certifications: Associate Degree in Engineering Science, Bristol Community College, RI; Flux Marine High Voltage Safety Training
Adam Lass is the sole Mechanical & Operations Technician at Flux Marine’s rapidly growing marine tech start-up. Adam has been instrumental in developing the assembly processes for their all-electric outboard motors. He has led this highly technical effort through multiple design iterations from early prototype builds to a streamlined and efficient multi-unit production operation. His positive attitude and work ethic are invaluable.
Brian Lentell – Walstrom Marine
Training/Certifications: Master in Yamaha, ABYC, and Seakeeper
Brian Lentell is currently a service leader for Walstrom Marine Cheboygan. Having been in the industry for 25 years, his knowledge and skills are well known throughout New England. Brian is known as the guy you call when no one else can solve a problem. His skills and expertise are only surpassed by his attention to detail, work ethic, and pride in his work.
Toby Merritt – Precision Boats
Training/Certifications: Eastern Idaho Technical College in 2017 with an Advanced Certificate in Automotive; Indmar Advanced Certified Service Technician—holding the highest level of certification through Indmar University—and is Platinum Certified with Indmar Marine Engines; Factory trained by Supra, Moomba, and Tigé Boats
Toby Merritt is recognized as a local expert in Indmar’s 2.3L and 6.2L engines and is known for his commitment to staying at the forefront of marine engine technology. He consistently seeks opportunities to expand his knowledge and support fellow technicians. His meticulous attention to detail, high-quality workmanship, and willingness to take on complex challenges beyond the typical scope of work make him an invaluable asset. Customers and colleagues alike rely on his expertise and dedication to delivering top-tier service.
Carlos Roman – AC Bluff Creek Marina LLC
Training/Certifications: Currently working towards Mercury and Yamaha Certifications
Carlos Roman joined Bluff Creek Marina from Puerto Rico, bringing exceptional talent in 2-stroke engine work and overall boat repair. When he first started, he spoke only Spanish. Now, more than six years later, he has taught himself English and built a stellar reputation among both colleagues and customers. He is recognized not only for his technical skill but also for his determination and work ethic. As a nominator shared, “He’s the best boat mechanic we have ever seen.”
Christian Schade – Flux Marine Ltd.
Training/Certifications: IYRS Marine Systems Program graduate; ACMA Open Molding and Vacuum Infusion; ABYC Master Advisor (Electrical, Marine Systems, and Diesel); NMEA Marine Electronics and NMEA 2000 Installer; Flux Marine High Voltage Safety Training
Christian Schade joined Flux Marine in early 2024 as a Marine Systems Intern, recommended by the IYRS School of Technology and Trades. He quickly proved himself as a skilled and dedicated team member and now leads the company’s growing service operations. Christian works directly with customers and partners in Rhode Island and abroad, ensuring timely, professional support.
Jeremy “J.T.” Taylor – Slidell Marine Inc.
Training/Certifications: Master Tech for Yamaha
With 20 years of experience as an outboard mechanic, J.T. Taylor has been in the field since graduating high school. He is known for his relentless dedication to providing top-tier service. He completes ongoing training annually with Honda, Mercury, Suzuki, and Yamaha, and is working toward additional master certifications. Professional and approachable, he is frequently praised by customers for his deep knowledge and ability to clearly explain complex problems.
Garrett Zell – Port Diesel
Training/Certifications: Diesel Industrial and Technology Degree from Universal Technical Institute in 2009; Numerous Cummins and Zeus certifications; Master Cummins Tech
Garrett Zell founded Port Diesel, a marine diesel service and repair company in Wilmington, North Carolina. Now in its ninth year, the business serves pleasure craft owners, commercial fishermen and large vessels with everything from basic maintenance to full repowers. Known for top-tier service and a five-star rating, Garrett brings expert knowledge and a strong commitment to the marine industry.
New Achiever: Delaney Huffman – Boyne Boat Yard
Training/Certifications: ABYC Master Technician (Gasoline Engines, Diesel Engines, Marine Systems, Marine Electrical); Certificate of Completion- Marine Service Technology at Great Lakes Boat Building School; Mercury Marine Systems Technician; Ilmor Inboard/Sterndrive Training
Delaney Huffman’s journey to becoming an outstanding technician began with a passion for working on vehicles during high school. In June 2022, she joined Boyne Boat Yard for a summer job and quickly discovered her love for the boating industry. With a scholarship from Boyne Boat Yard/Van Dam Custom Boats, she attended the Great Lakes Boat Building School (now the Marine Trades Institute) to further develop her skills.
New Achiever: Taven Larrance – Big Thunder Marine
Training/Certifications: Impact Institute – 2 year HS program; MMI 52 week Marine program; Continued Education from Big Thunder; Certified in Merc Outboards, MercCruiser, Yamaha and Suzuki
In his time at Big Thunder Marine, Taven Larrance has demonstrated strong work ethic, timeliness, and great character. He was accepted at Marine Mechanics Institute in Orlando, Florida and was awarded the John McElroy memorial scholarship from Impact. During his training at MMI, he worked at Craig Cat Boats, a manufacturer in Orlando, running a rigging department. In the nomination, it was stated, “In my opinion this is exactly the type of student we want to run our industry for years to come!”