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.
ANDY SMITH
Marine Electrical Technician
- ABYC Master Certified Technician
- ABYC Certified in Marine Electrical
- ABYC Certified in Marine Systems
- ABYC Certified in Diesel Engines
Andy graduated from the International Yacht Restoration School (IYRS), in Bristol, Rhode Island. At IYRS he studied their Marine Systems Program which has allowed Andy to bring his knowledge and abilities to our True North Marine team. With Andy’s drive & experience, he has been a great addition!
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.
NICK KANGAS
Marine Electronics Technician
- 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. We are excited to see all he will accomplish here at True North Marine!
NICK MASHBURN
Marine HVAC Technician
- ABYC Certified in Marine Systems
- Dometic Marine Certified
- EPA/HVAC Certified
Nick recently completed the EPA/HVAC Training and Certification through Johnson Supply and has been continuously expanding his knowledge in Marine Air Conditioning and Refrigeration. Nick came to True North Marine from the automotive industry with his Associates of Applied Science. He has been troubleshooting, diagnosing and repairing various systems such as air conditioning, electrical systems, transmissions and engines for over 5 years. We are very excited to have Nick’s skills and expertise at True North Marine!
JESSICA FRENCH
Marine Electrical/Electronics Technician
- Electronics Technology, Computer Troubleshooting & Repair
- Certified in Interior Communications Electrician (U.S. Navy)
- Certified in Maritime Shipboard Fire Fighting
- 18 years Electrical Experience
Jessica came to True North Marine with over 18 years of experience in the electronics industry through the U.S. Navy, Ivy Tech, and additional hands on experience. From 1991 to 1996 Jessica served in the U.S. Navy as a Interior Communications Electrician and Petty Officer. During this time she was responsible for preventive and corrective maintenance, troubleshooting, and testing equipment. She was also accountable for all on board communication systems and various operating systems; such as power distribution, switchboards, hydraulic, alarm, and entertainment. Jessica also has experience maintaining and repairing motors, gears, mechanical assemblies, generators and inverters. Her wide variety of skills have been a great addition to the TNM team!
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!
CHRIS BYRD
Marine Electrical & Electronics Technician
- ABYC Marine Electrical Training
- NMEA Marine Electronics Training
- Expert Raymarine Installer
- Expert Furuno, Garmin, Simrad, KVH Installer
- Transas Ecdis Installation Certifications
With several years of experience in Florida’s pleasure and commercial boating industry under his belt, Chris has been a great addition to our team! Chris has been working as a Marine Electrician since 2004. He has ABYC Marine Electrical and NMEA Marine Electronics Training. Additionally, he has held Transas Ecdis Installation Certifications in Navisailor 4000 MFD, NaviPlanner, NaviConning and Gateway. Chris’ expertise includes AC/DC Power Systems, Isolation Transformers, Shore Power Systems, Inverters, Navigation Systems, LED Lighting Systems and much, much more! His knowledge extends to many of our manufacturers and dealers such as, Raymarine, Furuno, Garmin, Simrad, KVH, Icom, etc. He brings a very valuable skill set to True North Marine!
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.
DRENNON ALLEN
Service Writer
- Service Engineer – Diesel Engine Operation & Controls
- Service Engineer – Hydraulic Systems & Controls
- Service Engineer – Cargo Pumps & Pumping Systems
Drennon has over 30 years of experience in the marine maintenance industry and general aviation environment. Drennon handles invoicing, warranties, and assists with customer communications. He is a motivated team member with a quality minded work ethic. He has proven that he is versatile in technical and administrative tasks. Drennon’s past field experience with engines (Mercury & Mercruisers), hydraulic systems, pumping systems and stern drives have allowed him to bring a very valuable skill-set to True North Marine.
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.