MEET TRUE NORTH MARINE

We strive to provide our customers with the best possible product – good customer service combined with superior workmanship.

Our technicians are professional, conscientious, well trained & well equipped.

In order to safely and professionally maintain your vessel, we invest heavily in education and training. Our commitment to solid, industry-specific education is supported by our membership in the American Boat and Yacht Council. ABYC is the only organization of its type that works closely with the Coast Guard to develop standards and recommended practices for the design, construction, service, and repair of all types of pleasure boats. They offer many marine industry-specific certifications. Some of the certifications our staff members possess are in Marine Systems, Diesel Engine & Support Systems, Marine Corrosion, Marine Electrical Systems, and ABYC Standards Accreditation. This insures you can feel confident the work performed on your boat is done to ABYC standards and will preserve or add value to your vessel.

MIGUEL PEREZ

Marine Technician – Specializes in Electrical and Electronics

ABYC Marine Systems Certification
ABYC Marine Electrical Certification
Certified Navico Installer (Simrad, B&G, and Lowrance)
Certified KVH Installer
12+ years of industry experience
Education in Industrial Engineering

Miguel holds both the ABYC Marine Systems Certification and the ABYC Marine Electrical Certification. He has the expertise and technical knowledge to install, troubleshoot, and upgrade the electronics aboard your vessel. A passion for boating has always been in Miguel’s blood. He honed his skills working for more than 12 years at his father’s boat service company in Venezuela. He also graduated from Universidad Jose Maria Vargas’s (also in Venezuela) Industrial Engineer program, and later moved to the United States. He brought with him not only his depth of experience, but his valued ability to efficiently and logically troubleshoot and repair a broad range of marine systems.

ALBERTO TUDURI

Marine Plumbing & Sanitation Technician

ABYC Master Certified Technician
ABYC Certified in Marine Systems
ABYC Certified in Marine Electrical
ABYC Certified in Marine Corrosion

Alberto specializes in Sanitation and Potable Water Systems. He brings to us many years of experience in the marine repair industry. Although his expertise spans many functional areas aboard, his knowledge, professionalism, and cleanliness set him apart in his chosen specialty of sanitation and potable water systems. The fact that he owns a small fleet of vessels might give you an idea of his passion for the water.

CHARLES SCHNARR

Marine Mechanical Technician

UTI Diesel & Industrial Technology Certification
10 years of experience specializing in diesel mechanics
Sergeant of Marines – Maintenance Chief

Charles has over 10 years of experience and is certified in Diesel and Industrial Technology from the Universal Technical Institute. His previous experience includes maintaining a fleet of 24 light armored vehicles, keeping a 95% readiness record. Part of this maintenance included electrical, hydraulic, suspension, engine and drive train systems. As the Marine’s Maintenance Chief he supervised 24 drivers and successfully trained an additional 8 mechanics. After the Marines Charles continued to work as a Diesel Mechanic, responsible for diagnosing and repairing medium to heavy duty trucks and trailers. This included preventive maintenance, inspections, warranty procedures, and steering & suspension repairs. He has been a great asset to the growth and development of True North Marine’s Mechanical Department!

TRAVIS VOTAW

Marine Electrical/Electronics Technician

Travis came to True North Marine with years of experience in technical support, management, mechanical and problem solving skills. From 2011 to 2019 Travis worked as a Mooring Master Assistant and was responsible for managing the ship’s crew and equipment aboard the ship. He also oversaw the connection of cargo transfer hoses, maintained the tension and adjustment of mooring lines for the duration of operations, distributed and directed crews in the handling of mooring lines and cargo transfer hoses. We are happy to have Travis and his skill-set on our team!

BRONSON ZIGMONT

Marine Mechanical Technician

Associates Degree in Diesel Technology from University of Northwestern Ohio
Aluminum TIG Welding Certificate

Moving from Michigan to join the True North Marine team, Bronson has been an exceptional addition! Bronson has over 10 years of hands-on troubleshooting and repair of engine, transmission, drive train, electrical and fuel systems experience. His experience also consists of preventative maintenance, equipment rebuilds and replacing equipment and electrical components. Welding, fabrication, machining and general maintenance are also in his wheel-house.

CODY WILLIAMS

Yacht Detailing Technician

Cody is very attentive with experience servicing and detailing luxury vehicles, airplanes and yachts. He has a strong work ethic and will always leave your boat looking better than you found it! Cody has studied and practiced aircraft maintenance that included engine service, engine cleaning, corrosion repair and applying vinyl graphics and protective films. He also was responsible for cleaning and polishing the exterior painted surfaces, polishing metal components along with cleaning and protecting leather, vinyl, plastic and suede. We appreciate Cody’s dedication and attention to detail!

NICK KANGAS

Shipyard Assistant

Federal Communications Commission (FCC) General Radio Operators License
International Society Certified Electronics Technician
Texas State Technical College: Associates Degree in Avionics Technology

Nick came to True North Marine with experience installing, troubleshooting and diagnosing electronic systems. He has an in depth knowledge of wiring harnesses, electronic circuits and conducting software updates. Nick is still continuing his education to broaden his knowledge in the Marine Industry. He started at True North Marine as an Electronics Technician and has now transitioned his knowledge and safety practices to True North Marine’s Shipyard.

XAVIER VARELA

Shipyard Operations Manager

Xavier was born in Colombia and came to the US to attend Florida Tech and the University of Houston where he earned a degree in Offshore Marine Technology and a degree in Industrial Technology. Throughout his career he has lived in five different countries, working for companies like Gulf Oil, Belgian Offshore Services and recently for Cadeco Industries as a plant manager. His work experience comes with a lot of knowledge about quality control, training and safety.

Xavier has spent half of his life around the water, he has worked as a marine consultant and logged over 120,000 offshore miles, either doing deliveries or racing sailboats. There isn’t a part of a vessel he is not familiar with! He has installed generators, AC units and navigational instruments after many years of boating with a compass and a sextant. Xavier has a love for boating, it doesn’t matter if it’s a sailboat or a powerboat. Today you will still find him racing his J24 or J22 on Wednesday nights and he is an active member of GBCA and HYC. He is looking forward to making every customer part of the True North Marine family.

JOSEF N

Service Coordinator

Josef has over 12 years of customer service experience in which he has managed multiple teams. He has 4 years of virtual system design experience and web development. He’s never been beat at chess or foosball, and he’s “not great” at horseshoes, but never passes up a chance to throw a few. He loves to bike or sail on the weekends and play with his newborn son, Jaxson. He has been with his wife for 12 years and has lived in every major city in Texas, but he grew up in the smallest town in Texas (literally). He is currently working on life long goals of treking the entire Appalachian Trail and building a fully sustainable ranch for his family. Between Josef’s customer service, sailing and management experience we are happy to have his expertise on our team!

NICK HOBBS

Yacht Consultant

Nick is a well-balanced water-man who’s credentials include being a licensed USCG Captain with both sailing and towing endorsements, as well as ASA Certifications thru 106. He also served honorably in the U.S. Navy as a Boatswainsmate (so he knows how to tie knots and chip deck paint…). Additionally, Nick is a member of the Texas Outrigger 6-man Canoe Club, served as a Course Marshal for the 2013 America’s Cup on San Francisco Bay, and is a PADi certified open water wreck diver specialist.

As a lifelong surfer, he can still be found chasing down tanker swells near Atkinson Island! In his spare time, he’s also been leading flotilla’s in the BVI’s for over two decades and continues to dedicate time to the Jost Van Dyke Preservation Society. He holds an MBA and has spent 25+ years negotiating contracts and managing an account portfolio in excess of $2B. Over the past 2 decades Nick has been actively “flipping” boats and truly enjoys the entire process of identifying the RIGHT BOAT and managing the entire negotiation process!

We are excited to bring his experience and expertise to our organization! If you’re thinking about buying or selling, Nick is here to help.

SANDRA WILECZEK

Captain-Lite Program Manager

ABYC Marine Systems Certified
NATO Medal
Navy & Marine Corps Commendation Medal
Navy & Marine Corps Achievement Medal

As our Lead First Mate Checkout Technician and Captain-Lite Program Manager, Sandra, conducts customized bi-weekly vessel inspections aboard. During these checkouts Sandra tests and runs critical systems that would prevent the boat from leaving the slip, keep customers from staying aboard, or affect the safety or security of the boat itself. She also manages the Swabbies Yacht Detailing program and a number of other Captain-Lite Yacht Support Programs. Sandra came to True North Marine with over 6 years of experience as a Fuel Engineer and a United States Navy Veteran working on Oil & Gas Turbine Systems, Oil & Gas Testing and Oil & Fuel movements. She has conducted domestic and global operations near Somalia, the Mediterranean, and the Atlantic & Pacific Oceans. Sandra is the recipient of multiple awards for her outstanding performances and professional work aboard ships. We are happy to have her experience and expertise on our team!

WILL MITCHELL

Service Foreman

ABYC Certified in Marine Electrical
ABYC Certified in Marine Systems
EPA Certified
Raymarine Certified Installer
Dometic Factory Trained in Cruisair and Marine Air Direct Expansion Air Conditioning

Will is not only a Raymarine Certified Installer (qualified to get your new Raymarine equipment certified for On-Board Warranties), but is also Dometic Factory trained in Marine Air and Cruisair air conditioning systems. He also holds an EPA refrigerant certification, and is experienced in troubleshooting and repair of self-contained and split AC systems from all the major manufacturers. Troubleshooting, repairs, replacements and installation of AC & DC refrigeration equipment is also in his wheelhouse. His attention to detail and solid troubleshooting skills make him a valuable member of our team across several areas of specialty. Whether it’s electronics, air conditioning, or refrigeration, he is competent to get your systems working and reliable when you need it most.

JULIAN CASTRO

Warehouse Inventory Manager

Julian came to True North Marine in 2014 as a highly motivated Warehouse Assistant and is now our Warehouse Inventory Manager. He has extensive knowledge in supervising various warehouse processes, managing inventory control processes and reporting inventory and financial analysis. Julian has shown great initiative and grown within the company becoming one of our team’s most reliable employees. With his drive and flexibility we are excited to see where his career will lead at True North Marine.

PHIL BISHOP

Purchasing Agent

As True North Marine’s Purchasing Agent, Phil works one on one issuing parts to technicians, receiving & shipping parts, and purchasing parts efficiently for our customers. He also ensures the building is well maintained, organized and a safe environment to keep things running smoothly. Phil has been working in a warehouse for seven years and has proven his ability to successfully learn and implement warehouse processes. With his outgoing and friendly attitude Phil is a pleasure to be around and has become a great member of the TNM Team!

MICHELLE McANDREW

Business Manager

Michelle came to True North Marine in 2010 and has been instrumental in orchestrating the incredible growth experienced over the past years. As a University of Houston graduate, she has applied her organizational, accounting, and management skills to help transform True North Marine into what it is today. She handles accounting, accounts payable & receivable, human resources, payroll, and many other aspects of business management that have laid the foundation for our continued growth.

ALIE FRANKLIN

Marketing Administrator

Alie graduated from Johnson & Whales University with a Bachelor’s Degree in Merchandising, Marketing & Advertising. She came to True North Marine with several years of marketing and management experience. She puts her marketing, digital graphics and design skills towards the development of True North Marine’s newsletters, website, brochures and signs. Along with projecting a strong visual presence for the company, Alie orchestrates presentations and seminars at regattas, boat meet-ups, boat shows and job fairs. Alie plays her part in many aspects of company development, including administrative work & company morale activities. Her dedication and personality make her a crucial and delightful addition to the TNM team.

MATTHEW LOVETTE

Service Manager

Matthew came to True North Marine with over 9 years of experience working in various boating communities. He started at True North Marine in 2012 with widespread industry knowledge and managerial skills. Matthew also holds multiple certifications through Mercruiser and Volvo Penta. His experience, strong leadership skills and drive to go the extra mile for customer satisfaction make him a valuable member of our team!

PATRICK McANDREW

General Manager

After attending Texas A&M University in College Station, where he was a member of the Corps of Cadets and studied Manufacturing Engineering Technology, he accepted a job in Dallas at a company that was a factory-authorized remanufacturer of gas engines for OEM manufacturers like Ford, Nissan, GM, and Mercruiser, among others. Starting out as a process engineer, and later moving into warehouse and production management roles, he was able to develop both technical and managerial skills. After moving to the area in 2001 and living aboard for several years, it became clear that the Clear Lake area could support a company offering quality workmanship with consistent customer service. Adding to previous education and technical certifications (ASE Cylinder Head Specialist, ASE Cylinder Block Specialist, and ASE Engine Assembly Specialist), he also obtained ABYC certifications in Diesel Engine and Support Systems, Marine Electrical Systems, and ABYC Standards Accreditation shortly after True North Marine was founded in 2003. While continually striving to stay on top of new developments and advancements in products and technology in the marine industry, he draws on his 15 years of experience to provide technical consulting, teaching, training, troubleshooting, and quality control to our technicians and customers alike.