Women Making Waves: Rallee Chupich
Rallee Chupich
Director of Service and Restaurant Operations, Gordy’s Lakefront Marine and Gordy’s Boat House
Education: Master’s of Education, University of Wisconsin, LaCrosse, Wisconsin certification to teach grades 6-12 Spanish & Geography, Assistant to the Dean of Education; B.A. Degrees in Geography and Spanish, University of California, Santa Barbara
Years in the marine industry: My entire life. I love it.
What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry? Treat others as you would want your children coached, mentored and treated. Be willing to do anything you would ask anyone else to do and always lead by example. The secret to creating lasting relationships is by caring genuinely for others. “Leadership is about making others better as a result of your presence and making sure that impact lasts in your absence.” – Sheryl Sandberg
Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? Why or why not? My career in the marine industry has grown and changed as a reflection of our family business. I have had a great life and career because of my dad. He has always been a great coach, teacher, friend and No. 1 fan. He believed I could do anything that I put my mind to and his unwavering support gave me the opportunity. In a male-dominated industry, of course I was one of only a few women at 20 group meetings, but the line in the bathroom was always short. I have always been treated with support and respect and am committed to the advancement of women in the marine industry.
If you had to choose one memorable achievement in the marine industry, what would it be and why? Earning the Darlene Briggs Woman of the Year Award was an amazing honor, but it takes a team to accomplish great things. I am so proud that others believe that I have made a difference in the industry.
How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? I hope to inspire other women to follow their passion in such a way that makes others around them better.
What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? Always be grateful, ask how you can help others and say “Thank you.” Love what you do every day or don’t do it. Be solution oriented and have an insatiable drive for excellence in all you do. “One of the most courageous things you can do is identify yourself, know who you are, what you believe in and where you want to go.” – Sheila Murray Bethel.
What are some of your favorite non-boating hobbies? Adventure travel, paddleboarding, surfing, snow skiing, shell collecting with my kids, and fun cooking with friends.
