The Marine Concepts Crew

Ryan White

Ryan grew up boating on Lake Norman in Charlotte, NC. At the young age of 15 Ryan began his career in the boat industry, spending his time washing and rigging boats. While attending East Carolina University Ryan worked retail, selling new boats. At 22 Ryan began working with a number of manufacturers including, Stingray, Regulator Offshore sportfishing boats and Landau Pontoon boats where he spent 8 years as a Manufacturers rep.

Ryan found his way to Virginia Beach and began working for various dealerships selling new boats when he & Shana decided to open their own operation. After spending so many years in the boat sales industry Ryan witnessed many negative practiced that contributed to the decision to open Marine Concepts.

His goal is to provide the customer service he feels all customers deserve - The Marine Concepts Difference!!

Shana White

Shana comes from a large family of boating fanatics, originally hailing from the Thousand Islands area in Upstate New York. Her love for the water started with many years of “swabbing the decks” and life guarding at the local Yacht Club. Shana began sailing “Lightnings” in the harbors of Lake Ontario and has since graduated to yachting in the Chesapeake Bay. Shana has a background that spans the nautical spectrum.

Lili White

Lili began her career with Marine Concepts in early spring 2006. Now with many years of boating experience under her belt, she will wow you with her knowledge and dedication to boating.   Lili brings lots of laughter and smiles to everyone who enters our office.

Ella White

Ella is our newest addition to the office and began her career in August, 2008.  Ella is currently taking lessons from her mentor, Lili, to master her boating skills.  Ella and Lili can be seen around the office and marina fishing, swimming and entertaining all people at the marina.

Sales Department

Capt. John Young

John has been involved in boating since childhood spending many summers sailing with his father in the waters off Cape Cod. As an adult John spent 2 years on a crew that built the Catriona, a 57’ Herreshoff Bounty design. John specialized in marine carpentry while working at a Brewer Boat yard in Plymouth, MA. Although his passion for sailing began in New England John was looking for a longer boating season and made his way south to the Hampton Roads area. John brings over 30 years of boating knowledge, both power and sail to Marine Concepts.

David Gwaltney

Born and raised on the James River, David has a lifelong passion for the water and boating. Formerly an award-winning advertising and marketing executive, David has been selling boats for more than ten years. He has an extensive knowledge of Sea Ray and all major boat lines. Working primarily as a buyers broker, David is enthusiastic about helping his customers find just what they need for an enjoyable boating experience. He is an avid fisherman and has been active with the Virginia Beach Anglers association for many years. He was also a founding member and former president of the Tidewater chapter of the Atlantic Coast Conservation Association.

Carson Forrester

Carson is the Marine Concepts Sportfish specialist. His interest in fishing began as a child when his grandfather took him boating throughout the Hampton Roads area. When he is not fighting fires with the Virginia Beach Fire Department, Carson enjoys offshore fishing for tuna & marlin. Carson’s passion for fishing and boating will help him put you in the right boat.

Christopher Walkley

Chris has known nothing but boating since childhood. He grew up on Lake Winnisquam located in the Lakes Region of New Hampshire. His childhood days were spent on the water in everything from a 12' rowboat to a 22' Catalina sailboat. His experience in the marine industry started with his first job as a dock attendant at the age of 16 and was fostered through bareboat sailing adventures.

Growing through the ranks, Chris has worked in all facets of the marina environment and his marina experience includes everything from yard and service, to sales and financing. Like John, Chris has found is way to Hampton Roads in search of a longer boating season. The area attracted Chris for its exciting atmosphere and friendly boaters. His experience and education coupled with his passion for boating ensure a friendly and knowledgeable Marine Concepts experience.

 

Office Support

 

Service Department

Tim Cowan

Tim has worked with Marine Concepts from the beginning. He has 35 years experience with boating and is Yamaha certified. Tim brings over 20 years of mechanic knowledge to the team as well as the amazing ability to get into all of those hard to get places in your engine room.

Bone

Bone brings years of mechanical abilities to Marine Concepts. As a Five Star Certified Master Technician in Yamaha engines, Bone has the knowledge to effectively take care of all your service and maintenance needs. Bone is a Mercury, MerCruiser & Volvo Penta specialist.