Maria Galati Hill Named 40 Under 40 Recipient

Updated April 3, 2024

The 40 Under 40 recognition program by Boating Industry is not only a prestigious accolade but also a platform that shines a spotlight on the emerging talents under the age of 40 who are revolutionizing the marine industry. These individuals serve as the driving force behind the industry’s evolution, bringing innovation and advancement to every sector, be it sales, marketing, manufacturing, or dealership operations. Chosen from a competitive pool of hundreds of nominations, the 40 honorees are distinguished by their exceptional accomplishments, deep expertise, and unwavering commitment to the world of boating.

Maria Galati Hill Named Boating Industry’s 40 Under 40

Among the exceptional recipients this year is Maria Galati Hill, the brilliant social media manager at Galati Yacht Sales. Maria’s remarkable skills and impactful contributions have rightfully earned her a well-deserved position among the top 40 under 40 leaders in the marine industry. In her insightful interview with Boating Magazine, Maria shared her profound passion for the industry and her inspiring vision for its future. Her unwavering dedication to excellence and her innovative strategies in social media management have truly set her apart as a trailblazer in the maritime realm. Congratulations, Maria, on this well-earned and prestigious recognition!

Maria Galati Hill 40 Under 40 Interview

What was your first job?

My parents believed in instilling hard work at an early age, something I plan to do with my two daughters. After middle school, my mom would take me to the marina where my dad would find small things for me to do around the office, like putting the address stickers on the back of yacht pamphlets and alphabetizing files. Working with my dad was the highlight of my day as a kid. Luckily, I still get to work closely with my dad to this day. My first formal job was also within the company working the receptionist desk on Saturdays.

Did you have any key mentors or influences in your career?

My dad has always been both a mentor and an influence in my career. His patience, kindness, and business skills have always been something I looked up to and hoped I could achieve one day. His presence commands a room without him trying. The respect and adoration he receives from the entire company is awe-inspiring, I feel honored to have a front row seat to who I believe is the best leader I’ve ever known.

As a young professional, what are the biggest challenges you’ve faced in the marine industry and how did you overcome them?

In a male-dominated industry, being an online personality and face for the company I believe put me at an advantage and allowed me to stand out. People look twice at a young female docking a 60-foot boat with her baby strapped to her chest. But I took that attention and made it into a positive, showing that women are just as capable of running and owning a boat as men. Not only being a woman in this industry is a challenge in some ways, but being a source of knowledge and communication on social platforms takes that to another level and I chose to see that as the upper hand and ran with it full speed.

How do you hope to inspire others in the marine industry?

Inspiring other women in the industry has become my “why”. Receiving messages from female brokers sharing how my videos have inspired them to get on camera, showcase their knowledge and increase their confidence is truly a dream come true. I hope to continue connecting with our audience of both men and women, showing that if you put yourself out there, although it may feel uncomfortable at times, it is so worth it in the end. Forming that connection with a mass audience in the boating industry is very rewarding.

Who was your hero as a child?

Both of my parents and they still are to this day. My dad for his leadership skills, kindness and problem-solving skills. My mom for her creativity, enthusiasm and hospitality. She was in charge of planning and executing customer boating trips when my brother and I were young and it was admirable to watch her be a full-time working mother and love every second of it. Watching her operate is what inspired me to do what I do today.

Why should young professionals choose a career in the marine industry?

The real question is why ‘shouldn’t’ they. Not only does it involve the ocean, stunning boats, but I believe the people in our industry are some of the kindest and best to work with. Our Galati team members are like a family and I feel honored to work with them. Outside of our company, the friends I have made that are “supposed” to be the competition, are a true testament to the idea that boating brings everyone together.
Learn More About Maria