Women Making Waves: Amanda Rodriguez Levandowski
Amanda Rodriguez Levandowski
Chief Operating Officer, Sales, Charlotte Ski Boats
Education: Business Administration from McColl Business School at Queens University
Years in the marine industry: 6
What are some of the biggest lessons you have learned working in the marine industry? I have learned to embrace the journey. Every day is a new opportunity to make a difference in someone’s life. We are able to share our passion of boating with families/individuals and teach them how to work together doing a fun outdoor activity. We are helping our customers create lifetime memories. Being a leader of Charlotte Ski Boats has given me the platform to change our community, one ski boat at a time.
Was it difficult to navigate a career in this industry? Why or why not? Yes and no. At the time, I was an owner in a mortgage company in Charlotte, while working on my college degree. My dream was to become an attorney. However, my soon-to-be husband and I were blessed with the opportunity to open Charlotte Ski Boats and my plans changed – and our plans became one of providing our customers with the most fun and exciting boating experiences to share with family and friends. It has taken great persistence, perseverance and passion to not only learn about the industry but to become a successful business owner. The journey thus far has been beyond rewarding.
How do you hope to inspire other women in the marine industry? As an advocate of what women can accomplish in the boating industry, I want to inspire other women to follow their passions and dreams and to be leaders in our marine industry. I want to help mentor others to avoid the same pitfalls that I’ve experienced as a business owner and give them opportunities to excel.
What advice do you have for women starting their careers in the marine industry? First and foremost, let boating be your passion. Enjoy challenging yourself to be the best you know you can be each day. Set goals for yourself and push beyond what even you think you can achieve. Find a good mentor who can teach you the technical stuff and encourage you along the way.
What would you be doing if you weren’t working in the boating industry? I am an entrepreneur at heart and I love anything that is physically active. I would enjoy owning a gym or yoga studio.
What is your favorite place to go boating? While I love to travel and would take the opportunity to boat anywhere I might land, I’d have to say there’s no place like home and home for me is Lake Norman.
