SUMMER 2015 | MARINE TECHNICIANTODAY
5
Q:
What do you feel AMTECH’s major role is?
A:
To help our members become more successful
in the marine service industry.
Q:
What made you decide to
volunteer to serve on the board?
A:
Spending most of my career in the marine
industry, I found that training and service
information was difficult to find. I wanted
to be able to help bring that information
to our members and make a difference
within the industry that has rewarded
me with opportunities.
Q:
Where do you see the industry going?
A:
I see more boats that will have outboard
power. The boats are lasting longer due
to the electronics that are controlling and
monitoring the engines.
It will be very important for our members to
understand the electronic systems & how to
properly troubleshoot the problem and find
the root cause of the problem.
INDUSTRY EXPERIENCE:
I started working in the marine industry as a boat rental operator in 1985. I then started to work
in the service department rigging boats & light service. I became the service manager in 1988 as
well as a salesman for the dealership.
In 1990 I started my career with Jasper Engines & Transmissions. I worked in our sales
department and was given the opportunity to manage our Marine Division in 2000. I am still
heavily involved with our Marine Division, however, I am very busy with our Authentic Engine
Division which serves the automotive restoration market.
I purchased a small marine dealership in 1995 that rented boats and sold Johnson outboards and
Rivera Cruiser Pontoons while maintaining full-time employment with Jasper Engines.
PERSONAL:
I enjoy boating & spending time
with my family. I have been married
for 29 years & have two daughters
that are now married & starting
families of their own.
AMTECH Board
Meet the
Darren Ragsdale,
AMTECH Board of Directors, Representing the Aftermarket
EMPLOYMENT:
Jasper Engines & Transmissions
since 1990.
