Women on Water
Published: Saturday, September 20, 2025 10:00 am
By: Mary Robinson
I’m sure you have seen the term “Women on the Water” floating around the past few years. Maybe a conference was held in your area? Were you aware of the awesome opportunities to meet people who are more knowledgeable about boating? I did that this past February and there was so much more to learn. WOW! I passed the exam and found out what I need to focus on during the long months in Northern Michigan.
What could Women on the Water mean to you? It could mean introducing you to things we can do to promote conservation, protect against pollution, educate others on fragile ecosystems, or simply volunteer at a local waterway clean-up.
Here are a few of my ‘mentors’ who have inspired me to keep learning:
Andrea Albert, DNR Northern Michigan
Kelsey Way, Sales Manager, Dry Harbor Marine, Charlevoix, Michigan
Reese (Bacon) Milliron- Race Committee & Crew Butterfly Nationals
What gave you a passion for boating/water?
Kelsey: Growing up in Charlevoix, boating has always been in my blood. My dad, Grandpa, and Scott Boss purchased Dry Harbour Marine in 1997—just a few years after I was born in 1994. From a young age, I was immersed in the marine world. At 14, I got my first job at Bay Harbor Lake Marina and commuted with my sister Kari, who was—and still is—a huge influence in my life. While she moved on, I stayed and worked there for nine years. After graduating from Northwood University, Barney and Scott offered me the opportunity to join the team at Dry Harbour. It felt like a natural and meaningful continuation of everything I’d grown up around.
Reese (Bacon) Milliron, Race Committee & Crew Butterfly Nationals
Reese: It started when we were kids out with boogie boards. I became curious and signed up for sailing courses. The rest was magic. My papa was knowledgeable, showing us how to tie lines and teaching water safety.
What training have you completed to perform your job? Do you recommend on-the-job experience or a class/course?
Andrea: The DNR Law Division trains new officers during a weeklong basic marine school. New officers learn how to operate, trailer, maintain, and use patrol boats for enforcement purposes. We also offer an advanced marine school for officers that focuses on operating and navigating our largest Great Lakes vessels. I would recommend a boater safety course for anyone interested in boating.
Reese: I would work in race committee training. Some clubs hire professionals where a volunteer can participate in a course to be certified in signal flags, whistles, horns, buoy setting, course set up, and wind direction.
Was there ever a time you knew you were ‘over your head’ and how did you remain calm?
Andrea: I have never felt overwhelmed when boating, but I have had several intense moments. I was out on Lake Huron and a dense fog rolled in when I returned to port. I could barely see beyond the bow. I used my navigation training to safely return to port in a small, narrow channel off the rocky shoreline. The most important thing is to keep calm and have confidence in yourself during these difficult situations.
Kelsey Way, Sales Manager, Dry Harbor Marine, Charlevoix, Michigan
Kelsey: Every spring and fall brings a whirlwind of logistics. Dry Harbour is located five miles from the water and our boats are stored in multiple facilities. We don’t have slips or direct water access, so organizing the daily movement of boats—what gets launched, what trailer is used, and where it needs to be stored—can be overwhelming. But staying calm is easy with the team we have. We communicate, support one another, and always focus on delivering the best possible service.
What do you recommend for women interested in marine/boating?
Kelsey: Go for it! I’m a small-town girl who’s always loved Charlevoix and Northern Michigan. I’m proud to be part of an industry that connects people to the water and creates lasting memories every summer. My sister Kari’s love for boating inspires me every day. She passed away in 2015, and it’s incredibly meaningful to continue in a field she loved so deeply. Find that thing that lights you up, and follow it. This industry has endless opportunities for women—whether it’s operations, service, sales, or behind-the-scenes work. If you have the passion, there’s a place for you.
Reese: Search out a club that is “welcoming.” Attend a new member course, talk to sailors, and sign up for any classes open to the public. Call around. Some clubs have “Lean In” parties, BBQs, and potlucks—all great opportunities to meet new friends. There are also opportunities for scholarships and scouting for College/Olympic teams.
What do you think needs to be done to improve women’s confidence on the water?
Andrea: Experienced boat owners and operators should prioritize teaching friends and family members. Not only does this expand our boating community, but during an emergency, it is imperative that others know how. Teaching others how to successfully launch and trailer the boat is also important. If another family member must perform this task, they must be able to do so safely.
Reese: Be your own husband. Just because men are captains, doesn’t mean you can’t be. Find a peer mentor who is a champion in the sport to look up to and ask questions.
What is the best lesson you’ve learned about boating/marine safety?
Andrea Albert, DNR Northern Michigan
Andrea: Just relax and enjoy your time on the water. I personally try to avoid crowds and enjoy boating/fishing in quiet rivers and natural areas.
Kelsey: Hands-on training is everything. I’ve learned the most from working side-by-side with seasoned pros—those who’ve spent years driving, lifting, maintaining, and moving boats. Their experience is unmatched, and watching how they prioritize safety in every step has taught me to do the same. Whether it’s properly loading a trailer, securing a boat, or navigating unpredictable weather, the best way to learn is through experience and listening to those who’ve seen it all. Safety isn’t just a checklist—it’s a mindset.
tags: Andrea Albert, Boating, Boating 101, Kelsey Way, Mary Robinson, Reese (Bacon) Milliron, women, Women In Boating
